Birdorable Yellow-shouldered Blackbird

Puerto Rico Week continues today with another new endemic bird added to Birdorable: the Yellow-shouldered Blackbird!

The Yellow-shouldered Blackbird is known locally as mariquita de Puerto Rico. or just mariquita.  Across South America, mariquita refers to a ladybug; in Caribbean countries its the name of a fish. Puerto Ricans may also refer to the bird as Capitán.  This striking blackbird gets its common English name from the bright yellow patches on its shoulders, which stand out against its otherwise glossy black plumage. Males and females look similar, though males are slightly larger, and tend to be more vocal.

The Yellow-shouldered Blackbird is primarily found along Puerto Rico’s southwest coast, especially in mangrove forests, coastal dry forests, and nearby open areas. While we tried to find this species on a couple of different outings during our Puerto Rico trip, this was one that we unfortunately missed. 

Despite its striking appearance and local nickname, the Yellow-shouldered Blackbird is not as well-known internationally as some other Puerto Rican birds, partly because it is critically endangered. Its population has declined drastically due to habitat loss, urban development, and one particularly sneaky threat: the Shiny Cowbird.

Shiny Cowbirds, like Brown-headed Cowbirds, are nest parasites. They lay their eggs in the nests of other birds—including Yellow-shouldered Blackbirds—and leave the host parents to raise their chicks. This behavior often leads to the failure of the blackbird’s own offspring, contributing to the population decline. In response, scientists and conservationists in Puerto Rico have worked hard to manage cowbird populations, protect blackbird nesting sites, and raise awareness about the species.

Yellow-shouldered Blackbird by Alcides Morales [CC BY-ND 2.0]

One of the most important conservation programs is the Yellow-shouldered Blackbird Recovery Plan, which includes habitat restoration, nest monitoring, and cowbird control. Thanks to these efforts, the population has stabilized in some areas, though the species remains at risk and conservation work continues to be crucial.

Yellow-shouldered Blackbirds are social and vocal, often forming small groups and communicating with a variety of calls. They feed mostly on insects, fruits, and nectar, and can sometimes be seen foraging in open fields or perched in mangrove branches. During breeding season, they build cup-shaped nests in trees or shrubs, usually near water, and may nest in loose colonies.

We're proud to bring this unique bird into the Birdorable lineup! Our Birdorable Yellow-shouldered Blackbird features the characteristic black body and bold yellow shoulder patch in our signature cute style. It’s a great way to celebrate this special species and help raise awareness about its conservation.

Be sure to check out our Birdorable shop for gifts and gear featuring the Yellow-shouldered Blackbird—perfect for bird fans, conservation supporters, and anyone who loves Puerto Rico’s incredible biodiversity. And stay tuned as we continue Puerto Rico Week, spotlighting more amazing endemic birds and the habitats that make the island such a special place for birdwatching and wildlife.

Birdorable Puerto Rican Lizard-Cuckoo

Puerto Rico Week continues with the introduction of another amazing new Birdorable—say hello to the Birdorable Puerto Rican Lizard-Cuckoo!

This fascinating bird is another one of Puerto Rico’s 18 endemic bird species.  The Puerto Rican Lizard-Cuckoo stands out not only for its unique look but also for its behavior and diet. As the name suggests, this bird is a specialist in catching lizards, which make up a significant part of its diet. It also feeds on a variety of large and small insects, including walking sticks, caterpillars, and centipedes. They have also been known to feed on coqui frogs. Lizard-Cuckoos use stealth and patience to ambush prey.

The Puerto Rican Lizard-Cuckoo has a long, graduated tail with bold white tips, a long, slightly curved rectangular bill, and a reddish ring around the eye that gives it a somewhat intense expression. Its plumage is mostly warm brown above and pale below, with soft rufous coloring on the wings. When it moves through the forest, it does so quietly and slowly, often hopping along branches or creeping through vines—its movement is almost squirrel-like.

Although it is not considered rare, the Puerto Rican Lizard-Cuckoo is often hard to spot due to its secretive nature. It prefers dense vegetation and forests, where it can sneak through the canopy and stay hidden. Birders often detect it by its call—a loud, laughing series of notes that rise and fall in pitch. This vocalization is often the first clue that a Lizard-Cuckoo is nearby, even if you can’t see it.

Puerto Rican Lizard-Cuckoo by Cataloging Nature [CC BY 2.0]

This species is found in a range of habitats across Puerto Rico, from dry coastal forests to wet montane forests, and even in suburban areas with mature trees and vegetation. The Puerto Rican Lizard-Cuckoo is one of several island endemic Lizard-Cuckoo species, along with birds native to and named after Jamaica and Hispaniola. 

Despite its widespread range on the island, the Puerto Rican Lizard-Cuckoo faces some of the same threats as other native birds. Habitat loss and fragmentation can reduce nesting opportunities and food sources. Invasive predators like feral cats and rats may also impact populations. Still, the species is currently considered stable, and its adaptability to different habitats has helped it persist.

We’re thrilled to add this unique bird to our Birdorable lineup! The Birdorable Puerto Rican Lizard-Cuckoo captures the bird’s distinctive look in our signature cute style. Whether you’re a fan of island birding, cuckoos, or just love learning about unique wildlife, we hope you’ll enjoy this newly illustrated species.

Check out our shop for products featuring the Puerto Rican Lizard-Cuckoo, from t-shirts to stickers and more. And stay tuned as we continue Puerto Rico Week, highlighting the island’s incredible endemic birds and the places you can go to see them!

Birdorable Puerto Rican Woodpecker

As our special Puerto Rico Week rolls on, we’re excited to introduce a new member of our Birdorable family: the Puerto Rican Woodpecker!

This striking bird is another of Puerto Rico’s 18 endemic bird species. With its glossy steel-blue body, deep red throat, and white facial markings, the Puerto Rican Woodpecker stands out both in appearance and behavior. It’s the only woodpecker species found year-round in Puerto Rico, and therefore plays a vital role in the island’s ecosystems.

The Puerto Rican Woodpecker can be found across much of the island, from lowland forests and mangroves to mountain woodlands and even urban parks. It’s a familiar sight for many locals and visitors, often heard before it’s seen—thanks to its sharp, rhythmic drumming on tree trunks or even utility poles.

Puerto Rican Woodpecker by Brandon Trentler [CC BY 2.0]

Like other woodpeckers, the Puerto Rican Woodpecker uses its strong bill to excavate nest cavities and search for insects hiding in bark. It also feeds on fruits, nuts, and seeds, making it an important player in seed dispersal and pest control. Interestingly, observers have noted that female Puerto Rican Woodpeckers tend to forage higher in trees than their male counterparts -- but only during breeding season. All birds tend to forage at a maximum height of 17 meters (about 56 feet).

The Puerto Rican Woodpecker is considered a symbol of Puerto Rico’s natural heritage. While it’s still relatively common and not currently endangered, it depends on healthy forest habitats to thrive. Protecting Puerto Rico’s diverse woodlands helps ensure this iconic bird continues to drum away for generations to come.

Our Birdorable Puerto Rican Woodpecker captures the charm of this unique species in a cute and colorful design. Be sure to check out our selection of gifts and apparel featuring this new Birdorable species, and stay tuned as we continue to celebrate the amazing birds of Puerto Rico all week long!

We’re excited to introduce a brand-new Birdorable for Puerto Rico Week—meet the Birdorable Adelaide’s Warbler!

This small, bright yellow warbler is one of Puerto Rico’s 18 endemic bird species, meaning it’s found only on the island. With its soft gray back, white eye-ring, and hyperactive nature, the Adelaide’s Warbler is a favorite among birdwatchers. It flits through the trees searching for insects, often making its presence known with a high-pitched, buzzy song. Unlike some other warblers that migrate between breeding and wintering grounds, Adelaide’s Warbler stays in Puerto Rico year-round, making it a reliable sighting for bird lovers exploring the island.

Adelaide’s Warbler (Setophaga adelaidae) was named after Maria Antoinette Adelaide Florentia del Carmen Swift Washburne, the daughter of ornithologist Robert Swift. While little is recorded about Adelaide herself, the bird that carries her name is an important part of Puerto Rico’s unique avian ecosystem. The species prefers dry forests and coastal scrublands, though it can also be found in some montane forests at higher elevations. It’s a frequent resident of Bosque Estatal de Guánica, Bosque Estatal de Maricao, and El Yunque National Forest, some of the island’s best birding spots. These forests are home to several other endemic birds, so a visit to these areas might reward birdwatchers with sightings of the Puerto Rican Tody, Puerto Rican Spindalis, or even the rare Elfin Woods Warbler.

Adelaide's Warbler by Brandon Trentler [CC BY 2.0]

Adelaide’s Warbler is an active forager, constantly moving through trees and shrubs in search of insects and spiders. It often hangs upside down from branches while picking prey off leaves, similar to chickadees and other warblers. Though its movements can make it tricky to spot, its distinctive buzzy, high-pitched song is a good clue that one is nearby. This vocal little bird plays an important role in Puerto Rico’s ecosystem by helping to control insect populations.

We’re thrilled to add the Birdorable Adelaide’s Warbler to our collection of cute cartoon birds. Its cheerful yellow plumage and lively personality make it a wonderful addition to our Birdorable flock. Check out our Birdorable gifts and gear featuring this Puerto Rican specialty, and stay tuned for more fun special bird posts as we continue celebrating Puerto Rico Week!

There are six species of stilt in the world. Here at Birdorable, as part of Avocet & Stilt Week, we're introducing four new to our family. These will be joining the two existing Birdorable stilts -- and completing the family!

Birdorable Black-winged Stilts

Black-winged Stilts in west Africa

Black-winged Stilt (Himantopus himantopus)

The Black-winged Stilt is one of the most widespread and easily recognized stilt species, found across Europe, Asia, Africa, and Australia. This bird is known for its striking black-and-white plumage, long pink legs, and slender black bill. Preferring shallow wetlands, such as marshes, estuaries, and salt pans, the Black-winged Stilt feeds by wading through the water and using its long bill to probe for insects, small crustaceans, and other invertebrates. Its long legs allow it to forage in deeper waters than many other wading birds, giving it access to a unique range of food sources. The Black-winged Stilt joined Birdorable in August 2010.

Birdorable Black-necked Stilts

Black-necked Stilt in southern Texas

Black-necked Stilt (Himantopus mexicanus)

The Black-necked Stilt is native to the Americas, with populations ranging from the United States to South America. This species is similar in appearance to the Black-winged Stilt but is distinguished by its entirely black neck and back, contrasting with its white underparts. Found in coastal marshes, ponds, and shallow lakes, the Black-necked Stilt feeds primarily on aquatic invertebrates and small fish. It’s particularly known for its defensive behavior during the breeding season, often engaging in aggressive displays to protect its nest from potential predators. The Black-necked Stilt joined Birdorable in June 2010.

Birdorable Banded Stilts

Banded Stilts in southern Australia

Banded Stilt (Cladorhynchus leucocephalus)

The Banded Stilt is a distinctive stilt species native to Australia. It is easily recognized by the bold chestnut band across its otherwise white body, which is most prominent during the breeding season. The Banded Stilt prefers ephemeral salt lakes and other shallow inland wetlands, where it feeds on brine shrimp and other small invertebrates. This species is nomadic, often moving great distances to find suitable habitats, especially after heavy rains create temporary wetlands in Australia’s arid interior. The Banded Stilt joined Birdorable earlier this Avocet & Stilt Week.

Birdorable Black Stilt

Black Stilt in New Zealand

Black Stilt (Himantopus novaezelandiae)

The Black Stilt, also known as the KakÄ«, is one of the rarest and most endangered wading birds in the world, endemic to New Zealand. This bird is entirely black, a unique feature among stilts, making it easily distinguishable from other species. The Black Stilt inhabits braided riverbeds and shallow wetlands, where it feeds on insects, worms, and small fish. Conservation efforts are critical for this species, as habitat loss and introduced predators have severely reduced its population. The Black Stilt joined Birdorable earlier this Avocet & Stilt Week.

Birdorable Pied Stilt

Pied Stilt in Australia

Pied Stilt (Himantopus leucocephalus)

The Pied Stilt, also known as the White-headed Stilt, is found in Australasia and Southeast Asia. It has a similar appearance to the Black-winged Stilt but is distinguished by its white head and black back. This species frequents a variety of wetlands, including estuaries, lagoons, and rice paddies. The Pied Stilt is highly adaptable and is often seen feeding in both freshwater and saltwater environments, using its long legs and bill to hunt for invertebrates in shallow water. The Pied Stilt joined Birdorable earlier this Avocet & Stilt Week.

Birdorable White-backed Stilt

White-backed Stilt in northern Brazil

White-backed Stilt (Himantopus melanurus)

The White-backed Stilt is a striking stilt species native to South America, particularly in Argentina, Chile, and Brazil. It resembles the Black-necked Stilt but has a distinctive white patch on its back, giving it its name. The White-backed Stilt is commonly found in shallow wetlands, where it forages for small invertebrates, insects, and crustaceans. This bird is also known for its strong social behavior, often nesting in colonies and displaying coordinated defensive tactics against predators. The White-backed Stilt joined Birdorable earlier this Avocet & Stilt Week.

Cute Birdorable Stilt Gifts

On this second day of Avocet & Stilt Week, we're introducing you to three new Birdorable species.

The avocets are a remarkable group of wading birds within the avocet and stilt (Recurvirostridae) family, known for their elegant appearance and unique feeding techniques. Among the four total species of avocets, the Andean Avocet, Pied Avocet, and Red-necked Avocet stand out for their distinctive traits and habitats. Let’s take a closer look at these fascinating birds that are new to Birdorable.

Birdorable Andean Avocet

Andean Avocet

Andean Avocet (Recurvirostra andina)

The Andean Avocet is a striking bird native to the high-altitude wetlands of the Andes Mountains in South America. Unlike its relatives, which are often found in lowland coastal areas, the Andean Avocet is adapted to life in a more extreme environment, living at elevations ranging from 3,500 to 4,700 meters (about 11,500 to 15,400 feet) above sea level. This avocet, like the others in the family, is easily recognized by its black and white body plumage and its long, slender, upturned bill. The bill is particularly important for its feeding strategy, allowing the Andean Avocet to sweep through the shallow waters of high-altitude lakes and salt flats in search of small aquatic invertebrates. Its long legs enable it to wade through deeper waters, accessing food that other birds cannot reach. The Andean Avocet’s choice of such harsh habitats helps it avoid competition, but it also means it must be resilient to extreme temperatures and limited food resources.

Birdorable Pied Avocet

Pied Avocet

Pied Avocet (Recurvirostra avosetta)

The Pied Avocet is perhaps the most iconic of the avocet species, known for its striking black-and-white plumage. Found across Europe, Asia, and Africa, the Pied Avocet inhabits coastal and inland wetlands, including estuaries, mudflats, and saline lagoons. Its elegant appearance is matched by its unique feeding technique, known as "scything." The Pied Avocet swings its upturned bill from side to side in the water, catching small crustaceans, insects, and other invertebrates. This feeding method is highly efficient, allowing the bird to cover large areas of shallow water quickly. The Pied Avocet is also known for its strong social behavior, often nesting in large colonies. This communal nesting strategy provides safety in numbers, as many eyes are on the lookout for predators. The Pied Avocations adaptability to various wetland environments and its striking appearance make it a favorite among birdwatchers across the pond.

Birdorable Red-necked Avocet

Red-necked Avocet

Red-necked Avocet (Recurvirostra novaehollandiae)

The Red-necked Avocet is a species native to Australia, where it can be found in shallow inland wetlands, including salt lakes, swamps, and coastal estuaries. This avocet is easily identified by its reddish-brown head and neck, contrasting with its white body and black wings. Like its relatives, the Red-necked Avocet uses its upturned bill to feed by scything through the water, capturing small invertebrates and other aquatic prey. The Red-necked Avocet is well-adapted to Australia’s often harsh and variable climate, capable of traveling long distances to find suitable feeding and breeding grounds. During dry periods, these birds may move to coastal areas or more permanent water bodies. Their ability to adapt to changing environments is key to their survival in a land known for its extreme weather conditions.

Birdorable American Avocet

American Avocet

American Avocet (Recurvirostra americana)

The American Avocet is a striking wader native to North America, easily recognized by its long, upturned bill, black-and-white wings, and elegant, slender build. During the breeding season, adults have a beautiful cinnamon-colored head and neck, which turns to grayish-white in the winter. This species is commonly found in shallow wetlands, including freshwater and saline lakes, marshes, and mudflats. This graceful bird is also known for its distinctive behavior of nesting on the ground, often on small islands or in sparsely vegetated areas near water. This iconic species joined Birdorable in 2010!

Photo of Pied Avocets

Pied Avocets at Table Mountain National Park in South Africa

Each of these avocet species—Andean, Pied, and Red-necked—has developed unique adaptations that allow them to thrive in their respective habitats. From the high-altitude wetlands of the Andes to the estuaries of Europe and Asia, and the salt lakes of Australia, avocets are a testament to nature's ability to shape species to fit their environments. Their specialized feeding techniques, striking appearances, and ability to adapt to diverse habitats make avocets some of the most fascinating birds to observe in the wild.

In total there are four avocet species in the world, and with the addition of these three joining the Birdorable American Avocet, we now have all of the birds in this group here in our flock!

Birdorable Gray-headed Chickadee

The Gray-headed Chickadee, also known as the Siberian Tit, is a charming little bird found in the northernmost parts of Europe and Asia, including Scandinavia and Siberia. These birds have an endearing, familiar fluffy appearance and are well-adapted to their harsh, cold habitats. Let’s learn more about the Gray-headed Chickadee, one of the newest species to join Birdorable!

A note about Gray versus Grey: The difference in spelling between "gray" and "grey" primarily depends on regional preferences. "Gray" is the preferred spelling in American English, while "grey" is more commonly used in British English. Both spellings are correct and refer to the same color. The choice of spelling is typically based on the writer's native dialect or the audience they are addressing. You may find different authorities online use either spelling or even both in the same publication.

Gray-headed Chickadees are small birds, measuring about 13-14 centimeters (5-5.5 inches) in length. They weigh around 11-14 grams (less than half an ounce!). They are named for their distinctive gray head, which contrasts beautifully with their brownish bodies and pale underparts. The birds also have a black bib under their beak and white cheeks, giving them a striking and easily recognizable look like other species of chickadee.

These chickadees are non-migratory, meaning they stay in their range throughout the year, enduring the frigid winters of their northern homes. They are incredibly resilient and have several adaptations to help them survive the cold. During the winter, they often roost in tree cavities or nest boxes, where they can stay warm and safe from predators.

Gray-headed Chickadee by Ron Knight [CC BY 2.0]

Their diet mainly consists of insects and seeds. In the summer, Gray-headed Chickadees feed on a variety of insects, spiders, and other small invertebrates. In the winter, when insects are scarce, they rely more heavily on seeds. These little forward-thinkers are big on caching food. They will often cache food during times of abundance to help them through the cold months. Cached items include both seeds and arthropods.

Gray-headed Chickadees are also known for their delightful vocalizations. They have a variety of calls and songs, serenades and warning calls, all used for communication. 

Breeding season for Gray-headed Chickadees begins in spring. They are cavity nesters, using old woodpecker holes, natural tree cavities, or nest boxes. The female lays a clutch of 4-11 eggs and incubates them alone for about two weeks. Both parents are involved in feeding the chicks once they hatch. The young fledge the nest after about three weeks but may remain with their parents for some time before becoming fully independent.

Gray-headed Chickadees are a wonderful example of the resilience and adaptability of birds living in extreme environments. Because of their far northern habitat, they are not as closely studied as other species of chickadee -- more research is needed to fully understand these cold-weather dwellers. Surely seeing these small but tough birds thrive in the harshest conditions is truly inspiring. 

Birdorable Gray-headed Chickadee Gifts

Birdorable Bushtit

The Bushtit, sometimes called the American Bushtit, is a charming little bird that often goes unnoticed due to its diminutive size and subtle coloration. Measuring up to about 4.5 inches in length, this tiny songbird can be found across a wide range of habitats in western North America, from southern Canada all the way to Central America. Despite its small stature, the Bushtit plays a big role in the ecosystems it inhabits.

Bushtits have soft, grayish-brown plumage, with lighter underparts and a slightly darker face. Some populations, particularly those in interior regions, have a darker cap, giving them a more pronounced facial contrast. The Bushtit’s small, round body and short tail make it look almost spherical when perched. 

Bushtits have several different recognized subspecies spread across North America, each with slight variations in appearance and range. While the most commonly referred to is the American Bushtit (Psaltriparus minimus), ornithologists recognize at least 10 different subspecies that are grouped into three subgroups, including Pacific, Interior, and melanotis. 

Bushtit by Becky Matsubara (CC BY 2.0)

American Bushtits are social creatures, often found in large, bustling flocks that can number from a few individuals to over 50 birds. These flocks move through trees and shrubs with remarkable agility, constantly chattering and flitting about as they forage for food. Their diet consists mainly of small insects and spiders, which they glean from foliage, branches, and bark. In winter, they may also eat seeds and berries.

One of the most fascinating aspects of the American Bushtit’s life is its nesting behavior. These birds are known for their elaborate, pendulous nests, which are intricately woven from spider silk, plant fibers, and other soft materials. The nests hang from branches like small socks, with a topside entrance that provides access to the interior. Both the male and female work together to build the nest, which can take several weeks to complete. Once finished, the nest is a cozy, well-insulated structure that can protect the eggs and chicks from the elements.

Breeding in American Bushtits is highly cooperative, and very interesting. Pairs often raising two broods in a single season, but this is done with the help of additional male birds, who may or may not be related to either parent. Males and females incubate the eggs, which takes less that two weeks before the chicks hatch. During this period, and while the chicks are being cared for after hatching, all of the attendant adults who are caring for the chicks may roost together in their pendulous nest!  This cooperative breeding behavior is relatively rare among birds and highlights the strong social bonds within Bushtit flocks.

Bushtits are not particularly loud, but they have a variety of soft, high-pitched calls that they use to communicate with each other. Their calls include a mix of chips, trills, and twittering sounds, which help keep the flock together as they move through dense vegetation. They do not sing a typical song.

The Bushtit is a new addition to our Birdorable family. They belong to our Tits, Chickadees & Kinglets group, and are most closely related to the Long-tailed Tit of the Old World. 

Birdorable Bushtit Gifts

800th Birdorable Bird

Meet the Puerto Rican Tody: Puerto Rico's Tiny Gem

Today we're revealing a new bird, and it's a big one -- our 800th Birdorable! 🎉 Actually, it's a really SMALL one -- our newest species to join Birdorable is the Puerto Rican Tody!

Birdorable Puerto-rican Tody

The Puerto Rican Tody is a tiny gem of a bird found exclusively in Puerto Rico. Known locally as "San Pedrito" (meaning Little Saint Peter), this vibrant little bird is a delight to spot in the wild. Measuring just about 4 inches in length, the Puerto Rican Tody packs a lot of charm into its small frame.

One of the first things you'll notice about the Puerto Rican Tody is its striking coloration. It sports a bright green head and back, a white underbelly, and a vivid red throat. This colorful plumage makes it easy to spot among the dense foliage of its habitat. Despite its small size, the Puerto Rican Tody is quite bold in appearance, a feature that makes it a favorite among birdwatchers. 

The Puerto Rican Tody belongs to the Todidae family, which includes five species in total, all of which are found in the Caribbean. The species’ scientific name, Todus mexicanus, might suggest a connection to Mexico, but this is a bit of a misnomer. The Puerto Rican Tody is a true endemic species, meaning it is found nowhere else in the world.

Birdorable Puerto-rican Tody

This little bird thrives in a variety of habitats across Puerto Rico, from dense forests to more open woodland areas. It’s often seen flitting about in the understory, where it hunts for insects using a unique method known as "leaf-feeding". Prey items are found from below, and then captured on a short flight with a sweeping motion of the beak. The Puerto Rican Tody is a master insectivore, preying on a wide variety of bugs, including beetles, flies, and ants. Its diet also includes small spiders and other arthropods, making it an important part of the local ecosystem as a natural pest controller.

Puerto Rican Todies are cavity nesters, meaning they nest in holes. They dig their nests in soft soil banks; the nest-building process is a team effort, with both the male and female participating. They use their small, sharp bills to excavate a burrow. At the end of this tunnel, they create a small chamber where the female will lay her eggs, typically 2-3 per clutch. The incubation period lasts about three weeks, with both parents sharing the duty of keeping the eggs warm and later feeding the chicks. Both males and females develop brood patches to aid in incubation.

Today this little jewel of Puerto Rico joins our Birdorable family as our 800th bird! It's a tiny bird making a big debut!

Photo of Puerto Rican Tody

Puerto Rican Tody by Juanantonioortiz (CC BY-SA 4.0)

Cute Birdorable Tody Gifts

Birdorable Calliope Hummingbird

As our Hummingbird Week 2024 starts to wind down, we are proud to introduce the smallest breeding bird of North America to our Birdorable family-- it's the Calliope Hummingbird!

The Calliope Hummingbird is a marvel in the bird world despite its small size. Named after Calliope, the muse of epic poetry in Greek mythology, this tiny bird packs a punch with its vibrant plumage and dynamic behavior. During the breeding season, these little ones are found primarily in the western United States and parts of Canada. They winter in Mexico. The Calliope Hummingbird is the world's smallest long-distance migratory bird.

First and foremost, the Calliope Hummingbird holds the title of the smallest breeding bird in North America. Measuring up to just 3.9 inches (10cm) in length and typically weighing less than 0.1 oz (2 to 3 grams), it’s hard to believe how much energy and beauty can be contained in such a tiny package. Despite its small stature, the Calliope Hummingbird exhibits incredible flying abilities, capable of hovering in place and performing swift aerial maneuvers with ease.

One of the most striking features of the Calliope Hummingbird is its vibrant plumage, especially in males. Adult males are adorned with a striking magenta streaked gorget, or throat patch, which can appear almost iridescent in the sunlight. The rest of their body is mostly green with white underparts, creating a beautiful contrast. Females and juveniles, while less colorful, still display a delicate beauty with their green backs and subtle buffy flanks.

Calliope Hummingbird by Alan Schmierer (Public Domain)

The Calliope Hummingbird’s diet consists mainly of nectar from a variety of flowering plants. They have a particular affinity for tubular flowers, which complement their long, slender bills. In addition to nectar, they also feed on small insects and spiders, which provide essential proteins. This varied diet helps maintain their high metabolism and energy levels required for their active lifestyle.

During the breeding season, the Calliope Hummingbird showcases some fascinating behaviors. Males perform a unique courtship display to attract females, involving extremely rapid wingbeats (significantly faster than normal hovering or flying wingbeats) which create a buzzing sound. This is accompanied by the display of throat feathers. After this display, the male ascends and then performs a high-speed dive, which produces different sounds as the feathers slice through the air. The male vocalizes during this performance as well -- all to attract the attention of a potential mate.

The Calliope Hummingbird is also known for its impressive migratory behavior. Despite their small size, these birds undertake long migrations, traveling from their breeding grounds in the western United States and Canada to their wintering grounds in Mexico. This journey can span over 5,000 miles round trip!

The Calliope Hummingbird is a tiny bird with an impressive presence. Its vibrant colors, dynamic behaviors, and impressive migratory feats make it a fascinating subject for bird watchers and nature enthusiasts alike. The Calliope Hummingbird joins Birdorable as our 799th bird!

Birdorable's Calliope Hummingbird Swag