Hummingbirds are unique to the Americas

A male Allen's hummingbird visits a feeder in Mission Viejo.  Photo by J.J. Meyer

When my relatives from Sweden stayed with us recently, they were amazed by the diversity of birds in our back yard.  But the hummingbirds were the most intriguing for them because they had never seen these birds in nature.  Hummingbirds are considered New World birds, meaning that they are only found naturally in the Americas.  You won't see these birds on other continents.

According to the National Geographic Field Guide, Allen's and Anna's hummingbirds are commonly found year-round in Southern California. There is also a small pocket along the coast where you can find Rufous hummingbirds all year, though many are migratory.  Other migratory species found in our area include the Black-chinned, Costa's and Calliope.

Attract these little jewels to your garden with native plants. 

Happy birding!
J.J.