The United States has around 25 species of hummingbirds, and Texas, due to its prime location, is potentially home to as many as 17 of these. This makes Texas a key state for hummingbird diversity, offering the widest variety of species in the country. Texans are fortunate to have access to so many species of these amazing little birds, providing unique opportunities for observation and enjoyment.
The Hummingbirds of Texas
The 17 species of hummingbird you may be able to see in Texas, including both common and rare species, are the:
- Ruby-throated hummingbird
- Broad-tailed hummingbird
- Buff-bellied hummingbird
- Blue-throated mountain gem
- Black-chinned hummingbird
- Calliope hummingbird
- Rufous hummingbird
- Lucifer hummingbird
- Anna’s hummingbird
- Broad-billed hummingbird
- Magnificent hummingbird
- Allen’s hummingbird
- White-eared hummingbird
- Mexican violetear
- Violet-crowned hummingbird
- Berylline hummingbird
- and the green-breasted mango.
First I’ll we look at the 8 species of hummingbirds that either have an official range in Texas, or pass through the state during migration. For the remaining 9 vagrant species, I’ve put together some additional helpful info and pictures for each one.
1. Ruby-throated Hummingbird
- Scientific name: Archilochus colubris
- Length: 2.8-3.5 in
- Weight: 0.1-0.2 oz
- Wingspan: 3.1-4.3 in
Ruby-throated Hummingbirds are common in the eastern half of Texas in cities like Austin, Houston, and Dallas. North and south of Austin is a migration path only but to the east is also a breeding range for these hummers.
Ruby-throated Hummingbirds are the only breeding hummingbirds in eastern North America but also have the largest breeding range of any North American hummingbird.
2. Broad-tailed Hummingbird
