Anna's Hummingbird vs Calliope Hummingbird

Anna's Hummingbird and Calliope Hummingbird can be distinguished by their size and throat coloration. Anna's is larger with a more extensive, iridescent pinkish-red gorget, while Calliope is smaller with a distinctive magenta streaked gorget.

Look for Anna's larger size and extensive pinkish-red gorget, especially in males. Calliope's smaller size and magenta streaked gorget are key. In overlapping ranges, note habitat preferences: Anna's in urban areas, Calliope in montane regions. Listen for Anna's buzzy song versus Calliope's tinkling notes.

Anna's Hummingbird is noticeably larger than the Calliope Hummingbird.

Anna's Hummingbird males have a full, iridescent pinkish-red gorget and crown, whereas Calliope males have a magenta streaked gorget with white background. Females and immatures of both species are less distinct but Anna's tend to have a more muted green back.

Both species hover and feed on nectar, but Anna's Hummingbird is more likely to be seen aggressively defending feeding territories.

Anna's Hummingbird is more adaptable and often found in urban areas, while Calliope Hummingbird prefers montane meadows and open woodlands.

Anna's Hummingbird has a buzzy, metallic song, while Calliope's song is less commonly heard and more of a high-pitched, tinkling series of notes.