Costa's Hummingbird

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The Costa's hummingbird (Calypte costae) is most at home in the desert Southwest, although a few have been known to stray as far north as Washington State and Alaska.

Males, like the one in the top picture, have an extended gorget that shines purple in light.

With green wings, female Costa's resemble female Anna's hummingbirds. Their underside tends to be a more uniform, light color, without spots.

Females nest in a variety of trees, often in riparian areas. Nests are built low to the ground.

The Natonal Audubon Society suggests that while they are not considered threatened or endangered, increased habitat alteration, due mainly to residential and commercial development, continues to place stress on Costa's Hummingbird populations.

© 2007 Patricia A. Michaels