Species name: Selasphorus rufus
The Rufous hummingbird is one of few species of hummingbirds that live
in the coniferous forests of the Pacific Northwest. This bird likes
to nest between 1.5-15 meters (5-50 feet) above the ground, mostly being
found on low-sloping conifer branches in the lower canopy of the forest.
Its nest is made from entwined spider webs and lichens. It feeds
on small insects like carpenter ants and aphids. This bird helps
maintain insect populations by feeding on them. It also feeds on
the nectar of red/orange flowers, like honeysuckle and red columbine, pollinating
flowers as it gathers nectar. The hummingbird is a food source for
small raptors, including owls.
