The broad-tailed hummingbird is among the various types of birds found in or near Ouray, Colorado. It measures about four feet in length and it is easily identified by the iridescent green backs and crowns and the white breast, visible on both males and females. Despite their similarities, males are identified by their pink-red throat patch called a gorget and their tail which is largely black with hues of green and in some cases, white. Females have duller pale-rust colors. The wings of males also produce a trilling sound which can typically be heard as they zing by.
Broad-tailed hummingbirds share feeding behaviors with other species of hummingbirds in that they use their long bills to feed on flowers as they rapidly hover. Their diet consists largely of nectar as well as small insects. In fact, these birds may “steal” trapped insects from spider webs or may even feed on the spiders themselves.
Speaking of males and females, when it comes to mating the males will put on a display of acrobatics by soaring high into the air (as much as sixty feet) and then diving down rapidly, showing off their wing trill to impress the females during courtship. During nesting, males will also patrol their territory and ward off intruders. Females usually set up their neatly constructed nests as high as twenty feet about the ground or higher.
This update is provided by Twins Peaks Lodge & Hot Springs. Our Ouray Colorado lodging, full-service hotel has seven different room types including rooms for couples or families with children. Our amenities include hot springs, a free breakfast, spectacular vistas of the mountains, and much more. For additional information on our Ouray Colorado lodging location, please call 800.207.2700 or visit us at 125 3rd Avenue Ouray, Colorado 81427.
