Hummingbirds are among the smallest birds in the world. Native to the Americas, they are generally concentrated in the tropics. However, the Black-Chinned Hummingbird is widespread throughout the west. It is found at low elevations and is not seen during the winter. This species has a green back, black chin, and iridescent patch of purple feathers underneath its chin.
Hummingbirds flap their wings at very high frequencies, some up to 80 wingbeats per minute. This allows them to hover midair. This makes it difficult to determine their exact shape and outline.
National Park Service NPGallery
NPS photo, Elias Zagha, Mesa Verde National Park (top photo)
NPS photo, Jacob W. Frank, Mesa Verde National Park (middle photo)
Zion National Park, ZION 2319 (bottom photo, specimen)
