Costa’s Hummingbird

Costa’s Hummingbirds are tiny (3–3.5 inches) desert dwellers of the Southwest. Males sport a striking purple cap and throat, while females have subdued green backs and pale underparts. They hover by beating their wings about 50 times a second and feed on nectar and insects. During courtship, males dive from up to 100 feet, producing a high-pitched whistle. Though listed as Least Concern, habitat loss and extreme weather can affect their populations.