Anna’s Hummingbird
Anna’s Hummingbird (Calypte anna)
Name Origin:
The genus name Calypte is derived from the Greek kalyptē (“covered” or “veiled”), referencing the iridescent crown and throat feathers that appear to change color with light. The species name anna honors Anna Masséna, Duchess of Rivoli, wife of the French ornithologist François Victor Masséna, who described the species in the 19th century.
Quick Facts
🪶 Length: 9–10 cm (3.5–3.9 in)
⚖️ Weight: 4–4.5 g (0.14–0.16 oz)
🌎 Range: Western North America — from southern British Columbia through the western United States into Baja California, Mexico
🧭 Elevation: Sea level to ~2,000 m (6,600 ft)
🌸 Diet: Nectar, small insects, and spiders
🏡 Habitat: Urban gardens, coastal scrub, oak woodland, and open forest edges
🧬 Clade: Mellisugini — “Bees” (Bee Hummingbirds tribe)
📊 Status: Least Concern (IUCN)
Subspecies & Distribution
Monotypic species — no recognized subspecies.
Distribution: Resident along the Pacific coast of North America from southern British Columbia to Baja California; populations have expanded inland and northward due to urbanization and ornamental plantings.
Species Overview
The Anna’s Hummingbird is a radiant symbol of adaptability and urban resilience. Once limited to the chaparral and coastal scrub of California, it now thrives as far north as Canada, sustained by year-round blooms and feeders. Its iridescent rose-pink crown and throat make it one of the most vividly colored hummingbirds in North America.
Male Description:
The male displays a dazzling rose-pink gorget and crown, which shift in hue from magenta to crimson depending on the light. The back and flanks are metallic green, while the underparts are grayish with a green wash. The tail is dark, and the bill is straight and slender. Males perform spectacular courtship dives, dropping from heights of 30 meters (100 ft) and producing a sharp, buzzing sound from their tail feathers.
Female Description:
Females are green above and grayish below, often with a few rose-colored spots on the throat. Their tails are rounded with white-tipped outer feathers. They are skilled nest builders, crafting tiny cups from plant down and spider silk, and are often seen at feeders even during winter months.
Habitat & Behavior:
Found in coastal scrub, gardens, and oak woodlands, Anna’s Hummingbirds are year-round residents in much of their range—unusual among North American hummingbirds. They are opportunistic feeders, taking nectar from native and exotic flowers, tree sap, and insects. Their song—a mix of squeaky buzzes and chips—is one of the most complex vocalizations among hummingbirds.
Conservation Note:
Listed as Least Concern by the IUCN, the Anna’s Hummingbird has actually expanded its range northward and inland in recent decades, thanks to ornamental plantings and feeders. While thriving in urban environments, it still relies on native vegetation for nesting and insect prey. Continued pollinator-friendly landscaping and native plant conservation ensure this resilient species continues to flourish.
