General
Allen's Hummingbird: Small, compact hummingbird; male has straight black bill, glittering green crown and back, white breast, and rufous sides, belly, rump, and tail. The throat (gorget) is iridescent copper-red. Female similar but lacks bright gorget. Tail is rufous, black, and green with white-tipped outer tail feathers. Feeds on nectar, insects, spiders, and sap. Swift direct flight, hovers when feeding.
Range and Habitat
Allen's Hummingbird: Breeds along the Pacific coast from southern Oregon to southern California. Resident in extreme southern California; winters from southern California and Arizona to central Mexico and sometimes can be found along the Gulf Coast states. Preferred habitats include coastal chaparral, brushlands, and edges of redwood forests.
Breeding and Nesting
Allen's Hummingbird: Two white eggs are laid in a tiny, tightly woven cup built on a sheltered branch. Incubation ranges from 15 to 22 days and is carried out by the female.
Foraging and Feeding
Allen's Hummingbird: Long narrow bill and tongue allow it to obtain nectar from flowers. Also obtains protein from small insects. Consumes over twice its weight in nectar each day by feeding every 10 to 15 minutes and visiting as many as 1,000 flowers.
Readily Eats
Sugar Water
Vocalization
Allen's Hummingbird: Calls include a low "chup" and an excited "zeeee chuppity-chup."
Similar Species
Allen's Hummingbird: Male Rufous Hummingbird has less green on crown and back. Female Rufous Hummingbird is indistinguishable in appearance.