The Blue-throated Hummingbird is the largest hummingbird found in the United States. Measuring up to five inches in length, the largest specimens may weigh up to ten grams. The male is dull-colored with the exception of his dazzling iridescent blue throat. The wings, back and head are greenish-gray and the underparts are white. This male also sports a black tail tipped with white and bold white facial stripes. Females are similar but lack the blue throat. Unlike many hummingbirds, the Blue-throated does not have a defensive aerial display, but rather uses different vocalizations to defend its territory.

Diet: Like most hummingbirds, the Blue-throated feeds on nectar from flowers, small insects, and tree sap. It will also visit feeders.

Range: The northern limit of the Blue-throated Hummingbird?s range extends into extreme southeast Arizona . It is much more common in Mexico , where it is a year-round resident.

Habitat: This hummingbird is often found in open woodlands, deciduous woodlands or pine-oak woodlands, mountainous regions, cave openings, and even in urban areas.

Nesting: Females lay two white eggs in a nest made of twigs, spider silk, lichens, mosses and possibly other man-made materials. Nests are often positioned near streams or water sources. Males take no part in raising the young. The female incubates the eggs for 17-19 days and the young hummingbirds leave the nest in 24-26 days. Sometimes, females have multiple broods in nests built on top of previously used nests.