Calliope Hummingbird vs Allen's Hummingbird

Calliope Hummingbird and Allen's Hummingbird are both small Selasphorus species, but they can be distinguished by their plumage and behavior. Calliope Hummingbird is the smallest North American hummingbird, while Allen's Hummingbird is slightly larger and known for its migratory behavior.

Look for the magenta gorget on male Calliope Hummingbirds versus the orange-red gorget on male Allen's Hummingbirds. Note the size difference, with Calliope being smaller. During migration, Allen's may be more likely to be seen in southern California.

Calliope Hummingbird is the smallest North American hummingbird, noticeably smaller than Allen's Hummingbird.

Calliope Hummingbird males have a distinctive magenta gorget that is more elongated compared to the orange-red gorget of Allen's Hummingbird males. Females and immature birds of both species are similar but can be differentiated by subtle differences in tail and back coloration.

Allen's Hummingbird exhibits migratory behavior, with some populations migrating to central Mexico, whereas Calliope Hummingbird is less migratory.