The broad-tailed hummingbird is a medium-sized hummingbird species found in highland regions from western United States and Western Canada to Mexico and Guatemala.
Region
Rocky Mountains and Mexican Highlands
Typical Environment
Breeds in highland regions from the western United States and southwestern Canada south through the Rockies and into the mountains of northern and central Mexico. Winters primarily in montane pine-oak and evergreen forests of Mexico and Guatemala. Prefers open woodlands, aspen groves, montane meadows, and forest edges with abundant flowering plants. Common around riparian corridors and in gardens at elevation during migration and breeding.
Altitude Range
1200–3600 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Males produce a distinctive metallic wing trill during flight, created by specialized primary feathers. At chilly high elevations they can enter torpor at night to conserve energy. They are key pollinators of montane wildflowers and readily visit backyard feeders within their range.
Female landing on a feeder
Female at nest
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with agile hovering; audible metallic wing trill (male); swift direct dashes between flowers
Social Behavior
Generally solitary outside of breeding, with males defending rich flower patches. Courtship includes display flights and dives accompanied by the wing trill. Females build a small cup nest of plant down and spider silk on horizontal branches, and raise the young alone.
Migratory Pattern
Seasonal migrant
Song Description
Vocalizations are sharp chips and thin trills; the most conspicuous sound is the mechanical metallic wing trill produced in flight. Males often accompany display flights with a series of buzzy notes and chips near the territory.
