- Selasphorus sasin
Identification
L. 3-3 1/2 in (8-9 cm)
Very small hummingbird
Male
- Iridescent green crown and back
- Rufous rump and tail
- Bright, iridescent copper-red gorget
- Appears dark when not in direct sunlight
- White breast
- Rufous sides
Female
- Bronze-green above, including central tail feathers
- White-tipped rufous outer tail feathers
- Flecked throat
- White underparts with rust tinge on flanks
Similar Species
Distribution
Breeds along coast from southern Oregon to southern California. Resident in southern California. Also winters in Mexico.
Taxonomy
There is one subspecies, S s sasin.
Habitat
Coastal chaparral, brushland, and edges of redwood forests.
Behaviour
2 white eggs are laid in a tiny, tightly woven cup placed on a sheltered branch.
Vocalisation
A low chup, and an excited zeeee chuppity-chup