ANNA'S HUMMINGBIRD

The Anna's Hummingbird (*Calypte anna*), known affectionately as the Anna Hummingbird, is a vibrant and energetic presence in gardens and natural spaces. Measuring just 3.9 to 4.3 inches in length, these small birds are most recognizable by their iridescent emerald feathers and the males’ brilliant rose-pink throats. They primarily feed on nectar from flowers, using their long, extendable tongues to reach into deep blossoms. Additionally, they supplement their diet with insects and spiders, which they catch in flight or pluck from spider webs.

One unique quality of the Anna's Hummingbird is its ability to sing and perform complex aerial displays during courtship. This includes sky dives from up to 130 feet in the air, producing a sharp chirp at the bottom of the dive, generated not by vocal cords, but by the tail feathers. In Bisbee, Arizona, the presence of Anna’s Hummingbirds is especially significant as they play a crucial role in pollinating local flora. Their adaptation to a variety of habitats makes them a common sight in residential areas, where their dazzling colors and dynamic behavior enchant residents and visitors alike, enhancing the local appeal and biodiversity.