The U.S. range of the Costa's Hummingbird normally only includes the deserts of the Southwest. Unlike some other western hummingbird species, they are not known for often wandering widely from that range, and they are thus only extremely rare visitors to South Dakota. Males are generally distinctive, with very long, flared gorgets of a brilliant purple (see photo to the right). As with other hummingbird species in the West, they have adopted well to a human presence, with increased numbers and range due to year-round availability of nectar and flower sources in many urban areas.
Habitat
In normal range, typically found in desert habitats, primarily in low washes and streamsides where vegetation is thicker than in the upland desert. Also has adapted to living in urban settings.
Diet
Feeds primarily on nectar, especially from desert plants such as agave and ocotillo.
Behavior
Feeds in typical hummingbird fashion at flowers and other nectar sources.
Breeding
Non-breeder in South Dakota
Song
Has a thin tink call, and high chattery twittery chase calls.
Migration
Birds in the U.S. portion of their range are typically migratory, moving southward into Mexico in winter, although a few remain north of the border. Within the U.S., birds breeding in the desert typically breed in late winter or very early spring, and then move westward to coastal areas for the hottest weather of the summer.
Similar Species
Anna's Hummingbird , Black-chinned Hummingbird
Conservation Status
Populations appear to be stable, with local fluctuations where desert habitat has been destroyed.
Photo Information
November 11th, 2015 - Santa Rita Lodge, in Madera Canyon south of Tucson, Arizona
Interactive eBird Map
Click to access the eBird species page for Costa's Hummingbird
