West · Pacific Flyway

Ruby-throated Hummingbird in California

Archilochus colubrisTrochilidae

UncommonAbundance
Migrant / TransientSeasonal status
4Active months

About Ruby-throated Hummingbird in California

Ruby-throated Hummingbirds need abundant nectar flowers, tiny insects, perches, and safe cover. A sequence of native blooms is the foundation; a carefully maintained sugar-water feeder can supplement it.

In California, this species is classified as uncommon. It passes through California during migration. The best months to observe this bird are April, May, September, October.

Monthly Activity — Ruby-throated Hummingbird in California

Relative frequency of observations by month. Higher bars indicate peak periods for this species.

Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
RegularSeasonalRare

Identification

Colorsgreen, white, ruby red
Size7.5–9 cm
Habitatwoodland edge, garden, meadow
FamilyTrochilidae

Best Time to See Ruby-throated Hummingbird in California

January
Low
February
Low
March
Active
April
Active
May
Active
June
Active
July
Low
August
Low
September
Active
October
Active
November
Active
December
Low

Other birds in California

Birds you might also encounter in California.

Ruby-throated Hummingbird in other states

Ruby-throated Hummingbird in California: Quick Facts

The Ruby-throated Hummingbird (Archilochus colubris) is an uncommon bird in California. It is classified as a migrant / transient in the state, falling within the West region and the Pacific Flyway migration corridor.

Preferred habitats include woodland edge, garden, meadow. The best months to spot this species in California are April, May, September, October. For birders in Los Angeles and throughout California, knowing the seasonal patterns of Ruby-throated Hummingbird can help plan birding trips and backyard feeding strategies.

breeding visitor in eastern North America; winters mainly in Mexico and Central America. Use the monthly activity chart above to plan your birding outings, and explore other bird species found in California using the related birds section.