Hummingbirds—Fantastic . . . from Head to Tail

Most hummingbirds keep their heads well trimmed, but not the rufous-crested coquette. Males sport quite the “do” with orange spikes.

The “Tyrian metaltail” sounds like some sort of comic book hero. Its shimmering armor is a great example of the striking colors that hummingbirds are known for. Their metallic color comes from reflected sunlight, not their own pigments.

The sword-billed hummingbird is the only bird with a beak longer than its body frame. Its extended nozzle makes sipping nectar from tube-shaped flowers a snap.

The nation of Ecuador is known for its beautiful hummers, and the violet-tailed sylph leads the show. As the males zip across the Andes Mountains, they appear to be wearing a deep violet cape.

The rufous hummingbird is truly a road—or rather, a sky—warrior. They can migrate 3,000 miles each year, flying from as far north as Alaska to as far south as Mexico.

The booted racket-tail hummingbird wears fluffy white “boots.” These accessories aren’t needed for warmth in the hot tropics of South America, but for a dazzling display. Males like to show off their tails, which are longer than their bodies!