Ruby-throated Hummingbird vs Anna's Hummingbird

In short

The most reliable field mark to differentiate a Ruby-throated Hummingbird from an Anna's Hummingbird is the throat color in adult males: Ruby-throated has a bright red throat, while Anna's has a rose-pink throat. Both species are similar in size and structure, but subtle differences in plumage and behavior can aid identification.

Identification tips

1. Look for the throat color in adult males: bright red for Ruby-throated, rose-pink for Anna's. 2. Note the tail shape: forked in Ruby-throated, squared in Anna's. 3. Consider the location: eastern U.S. for Ruby-throated, western U.S. for Anna's. 4. Listen for Anna's distinctive buzzy song, absent in Ruby-throated. 5. Be cautious with females and immatures, as they are more similar in appearance.

Size

Both species are similar in size, with Anna's Hummingbird being slightly bulkier.

Plumage

Adult male Ruby-throated Hummingbirds have a bright red throat and a forked tail, whereas male Anna's Hummingbirds have a rose-pink throat and a more squared tail. Females and immatures of both species are more challenging to differentiate, but Anna's may show a slight greenish hue on the crown.

Behaviour

Both species exhibit similar hovering and feeding behaviors, but Anna's Hummingbirds may be more aggressive at feeders.

Habitat

Ruby-throated Hummingbirds are typically found in eastern North America, favoring gardens and woodlands, while Anna's Hummingbirds are more common in the western U.S., often in urban and suburban areas.

Voice

Anna's Hummingbirds are known for their distinctive, buzzy song, which is not present in Ruby-throated Hummingbirds.