Hummingbirds are tiny, fascinating birds that visit Illinois each year. These colorful creatures are known for their quick movements and ability to hover in mid-air while they sip nectar from flowers. In Illinois, you can spot hummingbirds during the warmer months, usually from late spring to early fall. This is when they migrate to the state in search of food and nesting spots. Hummingbirds are a joy to watch, and learning about them can help you attract these beautiful birds to your garden.
Top 5 Hummingbirds in Illinois
| # | Hummingbird | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Ruby-throated Hummingbird | The most common hummingbird in Illinois. Males have a bright red throat. They are small and fast. |
| 2 | Rufous Hummingbird | Known for their orange color. They are feisty and often chase other birds away from feeders. |
| 3 | Broad-billed Hummingbird | Rare in Illinois. They have a green body and a red bill. Usually found in the southwestern U.S. |
| 4 | Calliope Hummingbird | The smallest bird in North America. Males have purple streaks on their throats. They are very rare. |
| 5 | Black-chinned Hummingbird | Another rare visitor. They have a black throat with a purple band below it. Found mostly in the West. |
5 Hummingbirds in Illinois: A Detailed Guide
Hummingbirds are fascinating creatures known for their incredible speed, unique flight abilities, and vibrant colors. In Illinois, five types of hummingbirds can be seen, each with its own characteristics and habits. This guide provides an in-depth look at these hummingbirds, explaining everything you need to know about them in simple and easy-to-understand language.
Ruby-Throated Hummingbird: A Dazzling Gem of Illinois
Scientific Name: Archilochus colubris
Life Span: 3–5 years
Size: 3–3.75 inches
Wingspan: 3.1–4.3 inches
Weight: 2–6 grams
Conservation Status: Least Concern
The Ruby-Throated Hummingbird is one of the most captivating visitors to Illinois, bringing vibrant life and color to the state’s gardens, forests, and backyards. Despite their delicate size, these birds are packed with energy and beauty, captivating onlookers with their iridescent feathers and dazzling aerial displays.
Appearance: A Flash of Color and Light
The Ruby-Throated Hummingbird is a true marvel. Males dazzle with their emerald green backs and vivid ruby-red throats, catching the sunlight like jewels. Females, while more understated, still charm with soft green and white feathers. Their rapid wing beats—up to 53 times per second—allow them to hover, dart, and even fly backward, feats that few birds can match.
Habitat & Range: A Summer Visitor to Illinois
These birds are the only hummingbird species to breed in Illinois, making them a unique treasure. Arriving in late April to early May, they can be found in open woodlands, gardens, and meadows, leaving in September for their wintering grounds in Central America. Their migratory journey is nothing short of remarkable, with some flying nonstop for over 500 miles across the Gulf of Mexico.
Diet: Nectar Connoisseurs & Tiny Predators
Ruby-Throated Hummingbirds feed primarily on nectar, favoring brightly colored, tubular flowers like trumpet vine and columbine. Their long beaks and specialized tongues help them extract nectar from deep within flowers. In addition to nectar, they also consume small insects and spiders, which provide much-needed protein for their high-energy lifestyle. These birds play an essential role in pollination, benefiting the local ecosystem.
Nesting & Breeding: Tiny Architects
Female Ruby-Throated Hummingbirds are master nest builders, crafting small, cup-shaped nests out of plant down, spider silk, and lichen. These nests are often perched on slender tree branches, offering both camouflage and protection. After laying one to three eggs, the female incubates them and raises the young on her own, as males do not assist in parental care.
Behavior: Aerial Acrobats
These tiny birds are known for their incredible flying abilities. With lightning-fast reflexes and territorial instincts, males will fiercely defend their feeding areas from rivals, swooping and diving to maintain control. Their aerial prowess, combined with their vibrant colors, makes them a favorite among birdwatchers.
Conservation & How You Can Help
Though currently listed as “Least Concern,” habitat loss and climate change pose potential risks to the Ruby-Throated Hummingbird’s future. You can help protect them by planting native, nectar-rich flowers and maintaining hummingbird feeders (1 part sugar to 4 parts water, no red dye). Avoid using pesticides, as they can harm both hummingbirds and their insect prey. By creating a welcoming environment, you can help sustain these beautiful creatures during their stay in Illinois.
Where to Spot Ruby-Throated Hummingbirds in Illinois
For a chance to see Ruby-Throated Hummingbirds in action, visit:
- Chicago Botanic Garden: A hotspot for birdwatching amidst vibrant flowers.
- Shawnee National Forest: A biodiverse region where hummingbirds thrive.
- Montrose Point Bird Sanctuary: A rest stop for migrating birds, including Ruby-Throated Hummingbirds.
Rufous Hummingbird: A Fiery Traveler of the Skies
Scientific Name: Selasphorus rufus
Life Span: 3–5 years
Size: 2.75–3.75 inches
Wingspan: 3.5–4.3 inches
Weight: 2.5–4.5 grams
Conservation Status: Least Concern
The Rufous Hummingbird is a striking and feisty species known for its brilliant orange-red coloring and impressive migration journey. While not as common in Illinois as the Ruby-Throated Hummingbird, these fiery travelers occasionally visit the state during their long migratory route between the Pacific Northwest and Mexico.
Appearance: A Flash of Fiery Orange
The Rufous Hummingbird is easily recognized by its bold coloration. Males are dressed in vibrant orange-red plumage, with an iridescent throat that glows like a flame in sunlight. Females are less showy, with green backs and rusty sides, but still possess the signature fiery hue on their tails. These small birds are known not only for their striking appearance but also for their aggressive behavior, particularly around feeding areas.
Habitat & Range: Long-Distance Migrants
Rufous Hummingbirds are known for their extraordinary migration, which takes them from their breeding grounds as far north as Alaska to their wintering areas in Mexico. They cover a remarkable distance of up to 4,000 miles, one of the longest migratory routes relative to body size of any bird. In Illinois, they are most often spotted during migration, usually in late summer or early fall.
While they primarily inhabit the western United States, Rufous Hummingbirds sometimes make rare appearances in Illinois, especially around nectar feeders, where their feisty nature often leads to territorial battles with other hummingbird species.
Diet: Nectar and Insects
Like other hummingbirds, the Rufous Hummingbird feeds primarily on nectar from brightly colored flowers, favoring red and tubular blooms. Their diet also includes small insects and spiders, which provide the protein they need during migration and breeding. Their ability to hover and dart in all directions allows them to access nectar efficiently, while their tiny, sharp beaks are perfectly adapted for catching insects mid-air.
Nesting & Breeding: Solitary and Self-Sufficient
Rufous Hummingbirds are solitary nesters, with females building small, cup-shaped nests made of plant fibers, spider silk, and camouflaged with lichen or moss. The nests are usually perched on tree branches or shrubs, providing a safe haven for their eggs. Males play no role in raising the young; after mating, they move on to other territories, leaving the females to incubate the eggs and care for the chicks on their own.
Behavior: Aggressive Defenders
Rufous Hummingbirds are notoriously territorial, often chasing away much larger birds from their feeding areas. Despite their small size, they are fearless and will defend their nectar sources vigorously, even against other hummingbirds. This assertive behavior is particularly noticeable during migration when competition for resources becomes intense.
Conservation & How You Can Help
Although the Rufous Hummingbird is not currently endangered, habitat loss and climate change pose potential threats to its population. These birds rely on specific flowering plants and habitats for food and nesting, making it important to support conservation efforts. You can help by planting native flowers that provide nectar and by keeping hummingbird feeders clean and filled, especially during migration periods when food sources may be scarce.
Where to Spot Rufous Hummingbirds in Illinois
To catch a glimpse of these fiery hummingbirds, you’ll want to visit areas where they might stop during migration. They are most likely to be seen at:
- Montrose Point Bird Sanctuary: Known for attracting a wide variety of migratory birds.
- Backyard Nectar Feeders: Keep your feeders up into the fall to support late-migrating Rufous Hummingbirds.
By creating a welcoming environment for Rufous Hummingbirds, you not only contribute to their survival during migration but also add a burst of vibrant life to your outdoor space.
Broad-Billed Hummingbird: A Rare Jewel in Illinois
Scientific Name: Cynanthus latirostris
Life Span: 3–4 years
Size: 3.1–3.9 inches
Wingspan: 5.1 inches
Weight: 3–4 grams
Conservation Status: Least Concern
While the Broad-Billed Hummingbird is a rare visitor to Illinois, its vibrant colors and striking appearance make it a true gem for birdwatchers lucky enough to spot one. Native to the southwestern U.S. and Mexico, this species occasionally strays far from its typical range, delighting observers with its unexpected presence in the state.
Appearance: A Vivid Flash of Color
The Broad-Billed Hummingbird is known for its vivid coloring, with males boasting a bright green body, a striking sapphire-blue throat, and a bold red bill tipped in black. Females are less colorful, with greenish bodies and a gray underbelly, but still possess the distinctive red bill that sets this species apart. Their vibrant plumage and distinct features make them easy to recognize, even from a distance.
Habitat & Range: A Rare Illinois Visitor
Although they typically reside in the arid regions of Mexico, Arizona, and New Mexico, Broad-Billed Hummingbirds sometimes stray into Illinois during migration. In their native habitats, they are often found in canyons, shrublands, and deserts, where they thrive in warm, dry climates.
In Illinois, these birds are rare but have been sighted at nectar feeders or in botanical gardens. Their appearance is usually limited to late summer and fall when they occasionally travel far from their normal range.
Diet: Nectar Lovers with a Taste for Insects
Like other hummingbirds, the Broad-Billed Hummingbird primarily feeds on nectar, favoring brightly colored flowers like trumpet vines and desert honeysuckles. Their long, slender bills are perfectly adapted for accessing nectar deep within flowers. In addition to nectar, they also catch small insects and spiders, which provide essential protein, especially during the breeding season when extra nutrition is required for raising young.
Nesting & Breeding: Hidden Architects
Broad-Billed Hummingbirds build tiny, cup-shaped nests using plant fibers, spider silk, and down. These nests are typically hidden in shrubs or trees, providing a safe and camouflaged spot for the female to lay her eggs. The female alone incubates the eggs and cares for the young, while the male’s role is limited to attracting a mate with his vivid plumage and aerial displays.
Behavior: Graceful Yet Territorial
While Broad-Billed Hummingbirds may seem delicate, they can be quite territorial, particularly when it comes to defending feeding areas. Males will often chase away other birds to protect their nectar sources. Despite their small size, these birds are agile and swift, capable of dazzling aerial acrobatics to assert dominance over their territory.
Conservation & How You Can Help
Broad-Billed Hummingbirds are not currently endangered, but habitat loss due to urbanization poses a threat to their populations. To help protect these beautiful birds, consider planting native flowers that provide nectar, setting up hummingbird feeders, and avoiding the use of pesticides in your garden. Ensuring that migratory birds have access to food and safe nesting spaces is crucial to supporting their survival during their long journeys.
Where to Spot Broad-Billed Hummingbirds in Illinois
Though rare, Broad-Billed Hummingbirds have been sighted in the following locations:
- Chicago Botanic Garden: Known for attracting a variety of migratory birds, including rare hummingbirds.
- Montrose Point Bird Sanctuary: A hotspot for birdwatching, where rare hummingbirds sometimes appear during migration.
If you’re fortunate enough to spot a Broad-Billed Hummingbird in Illinois, it’s truly a unique and memorable experience. By creating a hummingbird-friendly environment, you can contribute to their conservation while enjoying the vibrant beauty they bring to your garden or local parks.
Calliope Hummingbird: North America’s Smallest Migrant
Scientific Name: Selasphorus calliope
Life Span: 4–6 years
Size: 2.8–3.1 inches
Wingspan: 4.1 inches
Weight: 2–3 grams
Conservation Status: Least Concern
The Calliope Hummingbird is the smallest bird species in North America and a rare but fascinating visitor to Illinois. Known for its incredible endurance despite its tiny size, this hummingbird undertakes long migrations and is a prized sighting for birdwatchers due to its distinct beauty and rarity.
Appearance: Small but Striking
The Calliope Hummingbird is characterized by its small stature and striking features. Males are adorned with iridescent magenta streaks that run down their throats like whiskers, a unique trait that sets them apart from other hummingbird species. Their backs are metallic green, and their underparts are white. Females and juveniles are more subdued in color, with green backs and buffy underparts but lacking the male’s magenta throat streaks.
Habitat & Range: A Rare Visitor to Illinois
Calliope Hummingbirds typically breed in high-altitude meadows and forests in the western United States and Canada. Despite their western habitat, they occasionally wander east during migration, with rare sightings recorded in Illinois, usually during the fall. These birds winter in Mexico, undertaking a long migration that is impressive for their diminutive size.
In Illinois, they are rare, but they may be spotted around nectar feeders in gardens or parks, where their small size and quick movements make them a delightful surprise for birdwatchers.
Diet: Nectar and Insects
Calliope Hummingbirds, like most of their species, rely heavily on nectar as a primary food source. They are drawn to red, pink, and orange tubular flowers, using their long tongues to extract nectar. In addition to nectar, they consume small insects and spiders, which are essential for providing the protein they need to maintain their high metabolism, especially during migration and breeding seasons.
Nesting & Breeding: Master of Tiny Nests
These tiny birds build equally tiny nests. Females construct their nests from plant down, spider silk, and other soft materials, creating a delicate yet strong structure. These nests are usually placed on branches or shrubs, well-hidden from predators. Females are responsible for incubating the eggs and caring for the chicks, with males playing no role in nesting or chick-rearing.
Behavior: Quiet and Solitary
Unlike some of their more aggressive hummingbird relatives, Calliope Hummingbirds tend to be quieter and less territorial. They are often observed feeding alone and are not as prone to the aggressive defense of feeding areas seen in species like the Rufous Hummingbird. During the breeding season, males perform aerial displays to attract females, showing off their agility and striking throat markings.
Conservation & How You Can Help
While the Calliope Hummingbird is not currently at risk, habitat loss and climate change pose potential threats to their populations. Protecting high-altitude meadows and preserving migratory corridors are important for their long-term survival. You can support Calliope Hummingbirds by planting nectar-rich flowers and providing clean, pesticide-free environments. Hanging feeders with sugar water (1 part sugar to 4 parts water) during migration periods can also help provide essential sustenance.
Where to Spot Calliope Hummingbirds in Illinois
Due to their rarity, spotting a Calliope Hummingbird in Illinois is a special event. They are more likely to be seen:
- Montrose Point Bird Sanctuary: Known for attracting a variety of migratory birds, including rare hummingbirds.
- Backyard Nectar Feeders: Keeping feeders up during late summer and fall may attract this tiny traveler as it makes its way south for the winter.
Though rare, the Calliope Hummingbird’s presence in Illinois adds to the charm and diversity of the state’s birdlife. Watching these small but mighty birds is a rewarding experience for any bird enthusiast.
Black-Chinned Hummingbird: A Rare Visitor in Illinois
Scientific Name: Archilochus alexandri
Life Span: 4–7 years
Size: 3.25–3.5 inches
Wingspan: 4.3 inches
Weight: 3–4 grams
Conservation Status: Least Concern
The Black-Chinned Hummingbird is primarily found in the western United States, but occasionally makes its way to Illinois, much to the delight of birdwatchers. With its subtle beauty and fascinating behaviors, this species is a rare but exciting find for anyone lucky enough to spot it in the state.
Appearance: A Subtle Beauty with a Dark Twist
The Black-Chinned Hummingbird may not be as vividly colored as other species, but its elegant simplicity is captivating. Males have a distinctive velvety black throat with a narrow band of iridescent purple at the base, which shimmers in the right light. Their backs are metallic green, and their underparts are a pale grayish-white. Females, while lacking the black throat, share the green back and white belly but with a plainer, more understated appearance.
This species is smaller and more subtly colored than some of its relatives, but it’s still a beautiful sight with its striking black-and-purple chin and agile flight.
Habitat & Range: A Western Bird, Rare in Illinois
Black-Chinned Hummingbirds are typically found in arid regions, deserts, and open woodlands of the western United States, including states like Texas, Arizona, and New Mexico. However, some individuals stray far east during migration, and rare sightings have been reported in Illinois.
These hummingbirds prefer habitats with tall trees and water sources like rivers and streams, but in Illinois, they may be seen visiting gardens with feeders, particularly during migration.
Diet: Nectar and Protein-Rich Insects
Like other hummingbird species, the Black-Chinned Hummingbird feeds primarily on nectar from flowers, favoring tubular blossoms in bright red, orange, or pink hues. In addition to nectar, they consume insects and spiders, which provide essential protein for their diet, especially during the breeding season. They catch these small insects in mid-air, showcasing their agility and precision in flight.
Nesting & Breeding: Tiny and Well-Camouflaged Nests
Female Black-Chinned Hummingbirds build tiny, cup-shaped nests out of plant down, spider silk, and lichen. These nests are usually placed on tree branches or in shrubs, providing excellent camouflage from predators. The female alone incubates the eggs and raises the chicks, while the male’s role is limited to defending territories and attracting a mate through his vibrant plumage and impressive flight displays.
Behavior: Graceful yet Territorial
Though they are smaller and less aggressive than species like the Rufous Hummingbird, Black-Chinned Hummingbirds can be territorial, especially around food sources. Males are known for their elaborate courtship displays, which involve high-speed dives and loops. They are also skilled fliers, able to hover, dart, and even fly backward with incredible precision.
Conservation & How You Can Help
Black-Chinned Hummingbirds are currently listed as “Least Concern” in terms of conservation status, but habitat loss and changes to their migratory routes pose potential threats. You can help by planting native, nectar-rich flowers, setting up clean hummingbird feeders (1 part sugar to 4 parts water, no red dye), and ensuring a pesticide-free environment to protect the insects they rely on for protein.
Where to Spot Black-Chinned Hummingbirds in Illinois
Although sightings of Black-Chinned Hummingbirds are rare in Illinois, they can occasionally be found at:
- Montrose Point Bird Sanctuary: A well-known stopover for migratory birds, including rare hummingbirds.
- Backyard Nectar Feeders: Keep feeders up during the summer and early fall to attract wandering individuals.
Spotting a Black-Chinned Hummingbird in Illinois is a special event, and creating a hummingbird-friendly habitat can increase the chances of welcoming one into your garden. By supporting conservation efforts and maintaining clean feeders, you help these rare visitors thrive.
How to Attract Hummingbirds to Your Garden in Illinois
Attracting hummingbirds to your garden is both a delight and a rewarding way to contribute to their conservation. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to create the ideal environment for hummingbirds in your Illinois garden:
1. Plant Nectar-Rich, Native Flowers
One of the most effective ways to attract hummingbirds is by planting a variety of nectar-rich flowers. Native plants are the best choice as they naturally thrive in the Illinois climate and are known to produce the best nectar for local hummingbirds. Aim for flowers that bloom at different times throughout the season to provide a continuous food source from spring to fall.
Best Flowers to Plant:
- Trumpet Vine (Campsis radicans): Large, tubular flowers that hummingbirds adore.
- Bee Balm (Monarda): Vibrant red and pink blooms that attract hummingbirds and pollinators.
- Cardinal Flower (Lobelia cardinalis): Known for its striking red color and appeal to hummingbirds.
- Columbine (Aquilegia canadensis): A beautiful flower with a shape ideal for hummingbirds.
- Salvia (Salvia spp.): Available in a variety of colors that hummingbirds love.
By choosing a mix of these plants, you ensure that there will always be something in bloom to keep the hummingbirds coming back.
2. Install Hummingbird Feeders
Complement your flowers with hummingbird feeders, which offer a reliable source of nectar, especially when flowers are scarce. Use a simple homemade nectar recipe to attract hummingbirds:
Nectar Recipe:
- Mix 1 part white sugar with 4 parts water.
- Boil the mixture for 1-2 minutes to dissolve the sugar and remove impurities.
- Let it cool before filling the feeder.
Avoid using red dyes, honey, or artificial sweeteners, as they can harm the birds. Place the feeders in shaded areas to prevent the nectar from fermenting too quickly. Clean your feeders regularly—at least once a week—to prevent mold and bacteria buildup, which can be harmful to hummingbirds.
3. Provide a Water Source
Hummingbirds love water, especially moving water. While they don’t drink much from birdbaths, they are attracted to misting systems, fountains, or shallow water sources. Adding a gentle misting feature or a fountain to your garden will give them a place to bathe and cool off.
If you have a traditional birdbath, make sure it’s shallow, or add rocks to give the hummingbirds a perch while they drink or bathe.
4. Create Perches and Shelter
Hummingbirds need places to rest between feeding sessions. Adding small trees, shrubs, or even thin branches can provide natural perches for them. These also offer them a sense of safety and places to hide from predators.
Good Plant Choices for Perching:
- Shrubs like butterfly bush or elderberry.
- Small trees such as serviceberry or dogwood.
Additionally, leaving some natural areas in your garden with untidy branches or vines can help hummingbirds feel more at home. These areas also offer them suitable nesting spots where females can build their small, delicate nests.
5. Offer Nesting Materials
To encourage hummingbirds to nest in your garden, you can help by leaving out soft, natural materials like cotton fibers, plant down, or spider silk. Female hummingbirds use these materials to build their nests, which they often camouflage with bits of lichen or moss. You can create a small area in your garden where these materials are readily available.
6. Avoid Pesticides
Hummingbirds rely on small insects, such as gnats, flies, and spiders, for protein, especially during breeding season. By using pesticides, you eliminate a key part of their diet and potentially harm the birds. Opt for natural pest control methods to protect both the hummingbirds and the ecosystem in your garden.
7. Add Colorful Garden Décor
Hummingbirds are drawn to bright colors, especially red. While natural flowers are the best way to attract them, you can enhance the appeal of your garden by adding colorful garden decorations, like red feeders or brightly colored ornaments, that will catch their attention as they fly by.
Final Tips:
- Plant in Clusters: Group similar flowers together in clusters to make it easier for hummingbirds to find them.
- Location Matters: Position feeders and flowers near windows for easy viewing, but ensure they are spaced enough to avoid territorial disputes between hummingbirds.
- Be Patient: It may take some time for hummingbirds to discover your garden, but once they do, they’ll return year after year.
By following these steps, you can transform your garden into a hummingbird paradise, attracting these tiny, energetic birds throughout the warmer months in Illinois.
Conclusion
Hummingbirds are a wonderful sight in any garden in Illinois. The five types we talked about—the Ruby-throated, Rufous, Broad-billed, Calliope, and Black-chinned Hummingbirds—each have their own special traits that make them interesting to watch. By planting nectar-rich flowers, setting up feeders, and creating a welcoming environment, you can attract these beautiful birds to your garden and enjoy their presence throughout the warmer months. They add color, life, and excitement to any outdoor space, making them a joy to observe.
FAQs
1. What is the most common hummingbird species in Illinois?
The Ruby-throated Hummingbird is the most common species in Illinois. It’s easily recognized by its iridescent green feathers and the males’ distinctive red throat.
2. When do hummingbirds typically arrive in Illinois?
Hummingbirds usually arrive in Illinois during late April to early May and stay until September or October before migrating south.
3. How can I attract hummingbirds to my garden in Illinois?
To attract hummingbirds, plant native flowering plants like red tubular flowers, provide a hummingbird feeder with sugar water, and avoid using pesticides in your garden.
4. Are there any rare hummingbird species in Illinois?
Yes, rare species like the Rufous Hummingbird and Black-chinned Hummingbird are sometimes spotted in Illinois, especially during migration periods.
5. What should I put in a hummingbird feeder?
Fill your hummingbird feeder with a mixture of 1 part white granulated sugar to 4 parts water. Avoid using honey, artificial sweeteners, or red dye.
6. Do hummingbirds migrate from Illinois?
Yes, hummingbirds migrate south to Central America for the winter, typically starting their journey in late September or October.
7. Can I leave my hummingbird feeder out all year in Illinois?
While most hummingbirds leave Illinois in the fall, leaving your feeder out until late October can help late migrants. In winter, it’s usually not necessary unless rare species are spotted.
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