Scientific Name:
Calypte anna
Description
10 cm/4 in in length, with a long, thin beak, colorful, iridescent (shiny) plumage, and wings that beat up to 50 times per second. Males have a ruby-red head.
Behaviors
Many hummingbird species migrate as seasons change, but this species remains present along the California coast year round. While Anna’s hummingbird will feed on the nectar from flowers, it also hunts insects from midair and off of vegetation.
Fun Facts
Heart racing! At rest, the Anna’s hummingbird’s heart beats 250 times per minute, but while active in flight, it can beat up to 1200 times per minute! Compare that to humans, who have a resting heart rate of 60-100 beats per minute and an active heart rate of 200 beats per minute or less.
Nature Topics
Photo credit: ©Kip Evans
