The Calliope hummingbird, scientifically known as Selasphorus calliope, is found in the Western United States and parts of Canada. Specifically, this tiny bird breeds in meadows and open forests located high in the chilly Northwestern mountains. These areas provide the necessary resources and habitat for the Calliope hummingbird to thrive.
During the breeding season, which typically occurs from May to August, the Calliope hummingbird can be found in mountainous regions of Washington, Oregon, Idaho, Montana, Wyoming, and western Canada. They prefer areas with a mix of open spaces for foraging and nearby trees for nesting.
One interesting aspect of the Calliope hummingbird’s behavior is its long migration journey. Despite being the smallest bird in the United States, it embarks on an incredible journey of over 5,000 miles each year. After breeding in the Northwestern mountains, these hummingbirds undertake a southward migration to their wintering grounds in Mexico.
During the winter months, the Calliope hummingbird can be found in the pine-oak forests of central and southern Mexico. These forests provide a suitable habitat with abundant nectar sources and a milder climate compared to their breeding grounds. The specific locations within Mexico where they spend the winter can vary, but they generally occupy areas in the states of Michoacán, Guerrero, and Oaxaca.
The return journey from Mexico to the Northwestern mountains is equally impressive. These tiny birds undertake a challenging migration that takes them across deserts, mountains, and vast distances. They rely on nectar-rich flowers along the way to fuel their journey and often make stopovers in suitable habitats to rest and refuel.
It is fascinating to think about the incredible endurance and navigational abilities of these small birds, as they make this demanding journey year after year. Their ability to find their way back to the same breeding grounds in the Northwestern mountains is truly remarkable.
The Calliope hummingbird is primarily found in meadows and open forests high in the chilly Northwestern mountains during the breeding season. They undertake an impressive migration of over 5,000 miles each year to reach their wintering grounds in the pine-oak forests of central and southern Mexico. This smallest bird in the United States showcases its resilience and adaptability as it navigates vast distances and diverse habitats throughout its annual journey.