by Christina Browning, from the August 2005 Newsletter

Weighing in at about 2.5 grams and with a length of approximately seven centimeters, the Calliope Hummingbird (Stellula calliope) is the smallest bird in North America.

Its metallic, flashy green feathers on the back and crown are a sharp contrast to the white plumage on the bird’s underparts.

Whereas all other hummingbirds in North America have a solid colored chest, the male Calliope is easily distinguished by its purple-red feathers that streak the throat, giving a "whiskered" effect when erected. Likewise, the females are characterized by dark, freckled spots, located in the same area.

Found throughout the state, the Calliope prefers high mountains, and has been seen as high as 11,000 feet. They have been known to repair the previous year's tiny nest, about the size of a quarter, by constructing a new one atop the old. These nests can be found next to creeks, streams, or lakes.

The Calliope feeds on nectar, insects, and spiders. Taking advantage of the late-summer wildflowers in the mountains of western North American, the Calliope are known to leave their breeding grounds earlier than most migratory birds.

To attract Calliope Hummingbirds to your area in the spring, set out commercially produced or homemade hummingbird feeders and fill with a solution of one part water to one part sugar. There is no need to add red food coloring to your feeding mixture, as studies have shown that color does not increase the attractiveness of a food source. Place the feeders in or near your garden or on good perching trees and enjoy.

To learn more about the Calliope Hummingbird check out the Percevia Web page at:

http://www.percevia.com/explorer/db/birds_of_north_america_western/obj/222/target.aspx.

For more hike information and other educational and recreational events sponsored by Friends of the Clearwater, call us at 208-882-9755 or visit us on the Web at www.wildrockies.org/foc. And don't forget to tune in every Wednesday at 3:30pm for the Wild Clearwater Country Show on 92.5 FM, KRFP Radio Free Moscow.

Copyright: Copyright on articles, recipes and images are jointly held by the Moscow Food Co-op and the respective contributors, except were otherwise noted.

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