Quick Answer
Allen’s hummingbirds are not considered rare within their limited range along the Pacific Coast. However, they have a very small breeding range confined mainly to coastal California and southern Oregon, so they are much less common than other widespread North American hummingbird species. Their limited range and habitat preferences make them vulnerable to habitat loss and climate change.
Allen’s Hummingbird Range and Population
The breeding range of Allen’s hummingbirds stretches along the Pacific Coast from southern Oregon to southern California. They are most abundant in coastal valleys and foothills south of San Francisco Bay. Their range extends inland to the western slopes of the Sierra Nevada mountains and southern California deserts.
| Location | Breeding Abundance |
|---|---|
| Southern Oregon | Uncommon |
| Northern California | Common |
| Central California Coast | Abundant |
| Southern California Coast | Common |
| Sierra Nevada Foothills | Uncommon |
| Deserts of Southeastern California | Rare |
Allen’s hummingbirds undertake seasonal migrations, moving inland after breeding to take advantage of flower resources. Their winter range extends south to the southern tip of Baja California.
The global population is estimated at 140,000 individuals. Within their breeding range, they are often the most numerous hummingbird species present. They thrive in urban and suburban habitats and can be very common around feeders.
Habitat Preferences
Allen’s hummingbirds breed in a variety of woodland and scrub habitats along the Pacific Coast:
- Coastal scrub
- Chaparral
- Riparian woodlands
- Valley oak savannas
- Suburban parks and gardens
They build their tiny nests in trees and shrubs fairly low to the ground. Favorite nest sites include California lilac, orange, eucalyptus, and Monterey pine.
During the nonbreeding season, they frequent many of the same scrub habitats but also range into mountain meadows, pine-oak forests, and desert oases. They readily visit bird feeders and nectar sources in urban and suburban areas during winter.
Comparison to Other North American Hummingbirds
There are over 300 different hummingbird species found in the Americas. Here is how Allen’s hummingbirds compare in range size and population to some other common North American species:
| Species | Breeding Range | Population |
|---|---|---|
| Ruby-throated Hummingbird | Eastern North America | 12,000,000 |
| Rufous Hummingbird | Pacific Northwest to Alaska | 5,000,000 |
| Allen’s Hummingbird | Pacific Coast | 140,000 |
| Calliope Hummingbird | Western Mountains | Unknown, Likely < 1,000,000 |
As the table shows, Allen’s hummingbirds have a much smaller population and breeding range compared to wide-ranging species like the ruby-throated and rufous hummingbirds. However, they are locally common within their core habitat along coastal California. They are not considered globally threatened or endangered.
Threats and Conservation
The biggest threat to Allen’s hummingbirds is habitat loss, especially the destruction of scrub habitats they depend on for breeding. Other threats include:
- Invasive plant species crowding out native vegetation
- Climate change affecting availability of food sources
- Excessive pesticide use reducing insect prey
- Cats preying on adult birds and nestlings
To help conserve Allen’s hummingbirds:
- Protect and restore coastal scrub habitat
- Plant native flowers and flowering trees/shrubs
- Avoid pesticide overuse
- Keep pet cats indoors
Providing nectar feeders, especially during migration and winter, can help supplement their food sources. Avoiding tree trimming during nesting season will help protect active nests. Care should be taken to not disturb or approach closely to nests.
Interesting Facts
- Male Allen’s hummingbirds perform elaborate courtship dives up to 100 feet in the air to impress females.
- They are very aggressive and will fiercely defend nectar feeders and flower patches.
- Their wings beat up to 70 times per second!
- They build nests smaller than a walnut shell using spider silk and plant down.
- Allen’s hummingbirds have the second fastest metabolism of all birds while hovering.
Conclusion
While not endangered, Allen’s hummingbirds have a relatively small population and limited breeding distribution along the Pacific Coast. This habitat specialist is vulnerable to coastal development and climate pressures. Protecting scrub habitats, native plants, and nectar sources will help safeguard this feisty and fascinating hummingbird. Care should be taken around active nests, and cats should be kept indoors to reduce predation threats. With some conservation measures, Allen’s hummingbirds will hopefully continue thriving in their coastal kingdom.
