Are there Hummingbirds in Alberta?

Yes, there are hummingbirds in Alberta. Three primary species of these fascinating birds are found in this region: Rufous Hummingbirds, Calliope Hummingbirds, and Black-chinned Hummingbirds. These species typically migrate to Alberta for the breeding season after spending their winter in warmer locales such as Central America and South Texas.

In this blog post, we will delve into the fascinating world of hummingbirds in Alberta. We will explore the different species, their migration patterns, how to spot them, and the best practices for feeding them, among other fascinating aspects of these beautiful birds.

Table Of Contents

Hummingbird Species Found in Alberta
The Intricate Details of Hummingbird Migration
Feeding and Spotting Hummingbirds in Alberta
Hummingbirds in Alberta: A Symbol of Nature's Resilience
Conclusion
FAQs – Are there Hummingbirds in Alberta?

Hummingbird Species Found in Alberta

Rufous Hummingbirds

Rufous Hummingbirds, recognised by their bright orange plumage and white throat, are arguably the most common hummingbird species in Alberta. These medium-sized hummingbirds travel a long distance, migrating from as far south as Central America and South Texas to their breeding grounds in North America, with Alberta being within their largest breeding range. Interestingly, Rufous Hummingbirds have been sighted in Sherwood Park and other parts of Alberta, mainly during the spring hummingbird migration.

Calliope Hummingbirds

The Calliope Hummingbird, named after the muse of eloquence from Greek epic poetry, is one of the smallest hummingbirds in North America. Males can be distinguished by their unique magenta throat patches, which, under bright lighting, can appear like streaks. During the breeding season, these birds head north from their wintering grounds in Mexico to mountainous areas, with some reaching as far as Alberta.

Black-chinned Hummingbirds

The Black-chinned Hummingbird, another common hummingbird species in Alberta, has a black throat and rounded tail. This American hummingbird, though often found in the United States, migrates north to breeding territories in Central Canada, including Alberta. Their arrival in spring, like other hummingbirds, is usually welcomed by bird watchers and nature lovers alike.

The Intricate Details of Hummingbird Migration

The migration of hummingbirds is a breathtaking event. These amazing birds, despite their small body weight, are capable of flying non-stop over long distances, propelled by favourable tailwinds and a significant increase in body fat before their journey. Hummingbirds are also known as late migrants, often waiting for the perfect weather conditions to avoid heavy rain or strong winds. Alberta is a popular spot for hummingbird species during these migrations, especially during the spring hummingbird migration.

During the migration, hummingbirds rely on several food sources to replenish their energy reserves. They feed on the nectar from various native species of flowers, but they also seek out sugar water from hummingbird feeders that Albertans place in their gardens. However, it’s worth noting that white sugar, not brown sugar, should be used in these feeders, as brown sugar can be harmful to hummingbirds.

Feeding and Spotting Hummingbirds in Alberta

Feeding hummingbirds can be an enjoyable activity, especially if you are a bird watcher. Offering fresh nectar or sugar water in a hummingbird feeder can attract these beautiful birds to your garden. You could also plant flowers that are known nectar sources, enhancing the chance of sightings of hummingbirds.

Many hummingbirds have been spotted in Sherwood Park and around the Wild Bird Store, which is a known bird-feeding area in Alberta. During the spring hummingbird migration, you can observe a shimmer of hummingbirds (an aptly poetic term from the list of collective nouns for these birds) flying around in search of food supplies.

Hummingbirds in Alberta: A Symbol of Nature’s Resilience

As we reach the end of our exploration, it’s essential to note that these beautiful birds are more than just another native species of Alberta’s rich biodiversity. They are a symbol of nature’s resilience, capable of enduring long-distance migration and extreme conditions with unwavering determination. And while they may leave Alberta in winter to seek warmer winter homes in Central America, their anticipated return each spring is a constant reminder of the cyclic and interconnected nature of life on our planet.

It’s also a call for us to remember our role in protecting these and other bird species. Whether it’s ensuring that our bird feeding activities are safe and appropriate or taking a broader interest in conservation efforts, each of us can contribute to the ongoing survival and prosperity of these amazing birds.

Conclusion

In conclusion, hummingbirds in Alberta are more than just beautiful birds; they are a testament to the tenacity of life and the magic that happens when we take a moment to observe and appreciate the natural world around us. As you look out for the flash of a bright throat colour or the sound of fast-flapping wings, remember that there’s always more to learn, more to see, and more to marvel at when it comes to the wonderful world of hummingbirds.

FAQs – Are there Hummingbirds in Alberta?

Q: What types of hummingbirds can be found in Alberta?

A: Alberta is home to three common hummingbird species: Rufous Hummingbirds, Calliope Hummingbirds, and Black-chinned Hummingbirds.

Q: Are Rufous Hummingbirds medium-sized hummingbirds?

A: Yes, Rufous Hummingbirds are considered medium-sized hummingbirds. They are known for their bright orange plumage and white throat.

Q: Do Calliope Hummingbirds migrate to Alberta for breeding?

A: Yes, Calliope Hummingbirds, named after the muse of eloquence from Greek epic poetry, do migrate north from their wintering grounds in Mexico to mountainous areas for breeding, with some reaching as far as Alberta.

Q: How can Black-chinned Hummingbirds be identified?

A: Black-chinned Hummingbirds are distinguishable by their black throat and rounded tail.

Q: Where do hummingbirds usually spend their winter?

A: Hummingbirds usually spend their winter in warmer locales like Central America and South Texas, which are their typical wintering grounds.

Q: What is the migration pattern of hummingbirds?

A: Despite their small body weight, hummingbirds can fly non-stop over long distances. They are late migrants and usually wait for favourable weather conditions to migrate from their wintering grounds to their breeding territories.

Q: What food sources do hummingbirds rely on during migration?

A: During migration, hummingbirds feed on the nectar from various native species of flowers. They also seek out sugar water from hummingbird feeders.

Q: What kind of sugar should be used in hummingbird feeders?

A: White sugar should be used in hummingbird feeders. Brown sugar can be harmful to hummingbirds.

Q: Where can hummingbirds be spotted in Alberta?

A: Hummingbirds can be spotted in various parts of Alberta, including Sherwood Park and around the Wild Bird Store, which is a known bird feeding area.

Q: When is the best time to spot hummingbirds in Alberta?

A: The best time to spot hummingbirds in Alberta is during the spring hummingbird migration.

Q: Are hummingbirds considered amazing birds?

A: Yes, hummingbirds are considered amazing due to their ability to fly non-stop over long distances, survive in extreme conditions, and their beautiful and unique appearance.

Q: Are there any bird watching activities in Alberta?

A: Yes, bird watching is a popular activity in Alberta, especially during the spring hummingbird migration.

Q: How can one attract hummingbirds to their garden?

A: Offering fresh nectar or sugar water in a hummingbird feeder can attract these beautiful birds to your garden. Planting flowers that are known nectar sources also enhances the chance of sightings of hummingbirds.

Q: How fast can hummingbirds fly?

A: Depending on the species and circumstances, hummingbirds can reach flight speeds of up to 60 km/h.

Q: Are there Ruby-throated Hummingbirds in Alberta?

A: The Ruby-throated Hummingbird is more commonly found in the eastern range of North America. While it’s not impossible for them to be seen in Alberta, they are not one of the common species in this area.

Q: How are hummingbirds in Greek mythology?

A: The Calliope Hummingbird derives its name from Greek epic poetry, specifically from the muse of eloquence, the Calliope.

Q: Are hummingbirds aggressive?

A: While hummingbirds are generally peaceful creatures, they can exhibit territorial behaviours, especially during the breeding season.

Q: What changes occur in hummingbirds’ body before migration?

A: Before migration, hummingbirds experience a significant increase in body fat to help fuel their long-distance journey.

Q: What other hummingbirds can occasionally be seen in Alberta?

A: Occasionally, other hummingbirds like Anna’s, Costa’s, and even the eastern native Ruby-throated Hummingbirds may be spotted in Alberta, although they are not as common as Rufous, Calliope, and Black-chinned Hummingbirds.

Q: How are collective nouns used in describing hummingbirds?

A: A group of hummingbirds is sometimes referred to as a “shimmer” or a “charm,” both of which are collective nouns that aptly describe these beautiful birds.