Buff-bellied Hummingbird

The Buff-bellied Hummingbird is the most common of the Amazilia hummingbirds that have been found in the United States, with a regular breeding area in south Texas.  The species is unique in that after the summer breeding season, some birds disperse to the northeast, expanding their winter range along much of the Gulf Coast. They are rather distinctive in appearance among hummingbirds that reach the United States, as Buff-bellied Hummingbirds and Berylline Hummingbirds are the two species that have an overall very dark plumage.

Habitat: Uses a variety of semi-open habitats, including shrublands and thickets with scattered trees, forest edges and clearings, and suburban neighborhoods.

Diet: Typical diet of hummingbirds, primarily nectar, but insects also comprise a portion of the diet. 

Behavior: Males establish feeding territories which are defended against other hummingbirds, as well as against large insects that utilize feeding areas.  Defense of an area is accomplished through flight displays and aggressive chasing of intruders.

Nesting: Buff-bellied Hummingbirds typically build a nest fairly low in a shrub or small tree.  The nest is made of plant fibers and plant down, and spider webs, with the outside covered in lichens, bits of bark, or flower pieces. The nest is evidently built by the female, who also incubates the eggs and raises the young.

Song: Displaying males have a short series of two-syllable notes.

Migration: Buff-bellied Hummingbirds are permanent residents in most of their Mexican range, and in extreme southern Texas.  However, some birds disperse northeastward after the breeding season, with small numbers wintering on the Gulf Coast of the United States.

Interactive eBird Map: Click here to access an interactive eBird map of Buff-bellied Hummingbird photos

Feeders: Will attend hummingbird feeders

Similar Species: Similar to Berylline Hummingbird, with overall dark coloring.  Buff-colored belly distinguishes it from that species.   

Conservation Status: No conservation concerns are presently noted for the species 

Further Information: 1) Cornell's All About Birds - Buff-bellied Hummingbird

2) WhatBird - Buff-bellied Hummingbird

3) Audubon Guide - Buff-bellied Hummingbird

Image Information: Colored lithograph by John Gould - 1861 - Public domain, copyright expired in United States.

Additional Photos: Additional Photos Coming Soon!!

 

Click below for a higher-resolution map

South Dakota Status: Non-resident in South Dakota

Additional Buff-bellied Hummingbird Photos (coming soon!!)