Central Oregon Hummingbird Species
Now is a great time observe hummingbirds in Central Oregon, so mix up some nectar (1 part sugar: 4 parts water) and fill those feeders. Read further to learn about the hummingbird species you may see in our area.
Rufous Hummingbird
The Rufous Hummingbird is by far the most common hummingbird species in Central Oregon. As the name suggests these birds have a rusty coloration. Adult males have a rusty red head, back, and belly with a red throat. Females have a green head and back, with rusty red flanks and red at the base of the tail. Females have a small reddish spot on the throat, much smaller than the males. Rufous Hummingbirds begin returning to Central Oregon in April. They will nest, then feed very heavily prior to migrating south again in late September and October.
Learn more about Rufous Hummingbirds.
Anna's Hummingbird
The Anna's Hummingbird is much less common in Central Oregon than the Rufous. Anna's hummingbirds are larger than and lack the rusty coloration of the Rufous. Male Anna's have brilliant red feathers on the top of the head as well as the throat. The females have a green back and whitish breast and belly, and lack the reddish flanks and tail of the female Rufous. Some Anna's hummingbirds are year round residents of Central Oregon!
Learn more about Anna's Hummingbirds.
Although uncommon, three other species of hummingbirds are occasionally seen in Central Oregon. Click on each species name to see photos and learn more.