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This page lists books that are totally or partially about Hummingbirds. The books are listed in order of publication date with the most recent at the top.

Family Trochilidae

There are approximately 330 species of Hummingbird. They occur in South America, Central America, North America and the Caribbean.

Hummingbirds of North America: The Eight Most Familiar North American Species

2017

"This guide presents familiar species of North America together with basic information on their colour patterns, field marks and geographical ranges. Each species description includes information on its habitat and behaviour. Also included are tips for using feeders to attract hummingbirds."

North American Hummingbirds: An Identification Guide

George C. West

2016

"Designed to help birders and banders identify, age, and sex all seventeen species of hummingbirds found in North America, this is the only identification guide devoted entirely to hummingbirds that includes up-close, easy-to-use illustrations. It also provides information on the eight species that have been reported but rarely seen in North America. On first viewing hummingbirds are often a blur of fast-moving color. However, when they perch and hover they can be observed, and the size, shape, and color; the proportions of the body, bill, throat, and tail; the wing feather pattern; and the birds’ behavior are crucial to accurate identification. The author’s concise descriptions and illustrations pinpoint all these features in clear, jargon-free language. Anyone who loves hummingbirds will welcome the information he provides."

The Hummingbirds of North America

Paul A. Johnsgard

2nd edition (paperback)

2016

This edition originally published in hardback in 1997.

" First published in 1983, this acclaimed volume now has been revised and expanded to include twenty-five Mexican species, such as the long-billed starthroat and the fork-tailed emeralds, thereby more than doubling the species coverage of the original edition. Full species-by-species accounts survey the evolutionary history, anatomical and physiological specializations, and comparative ecology, behavior, and reproductive biology of this largest family of nonpasserine birds. Individual accounts are complemented by 24 full-color paintings. Including updated range maps, identification keys, and a bibliography that has been broadened to include literature on the little-known Mexican species, the book is both accessible to amateur birders and an authoritative volume for ornithologists."

Hummingbirds: How to Attract and Feed with a Backyard Habitat

Brian Grant

"Hummingbirds. Such a fascinating bird species that captivate anyone who has ever seen one to learn more about these "jewels of the sky". In "Hummingbirds: How To Attract And Feed With A Backyard Habitat" you will discover... - About 12 different hummingbird species frequently seen in North America - Best ways to attract and feed hummingbirds through feeders and flowers - Our hummingbird nectar recipe that will continue to bring hummers back - And much more! Full of useful, insightful information on hummingbirds that will help you appreciate the fragility and elegance of this bird species!"

Fastest Things on Wings: Rescuing Hummingbirds in Hollywood

Terry Masear

2016

"Before he collided with a limousine, Gabriel, an Anna s hummingbird with a head and throat cloaked in iridescent magenta feathers, could spiral 130 feet in the air, dive 60 miles per hour in a courtship display, hover, and fly backward. When he arrived in rehab caked in road grime, he was so badly injured that he could barely perch. But Terry Masear, one of the busiest hummingbird rehabbers in the country, was determined to save this damaged bird, who seemed oddly familiar. During the four months that Terry worked with Gabriel, she took in 160 hummingbirds, from a miniature nestling rescued by a bulldog and a fledgling trapped inside a skydiving wind tunnel at Universal CityWalk, to Pepper, a female Anna s injured on a film set. In their time together, Pepper and Gabriel form a special bond and, together, with Terry s help, learn to fly again. Woven around Gabriel s and Pepper s stories are those of other colorful birds in this personal narrative filled with the science and magic surrounding these fascinating creatures."

Hummingbirds

Ronald Orenstein

Firefly Books

2014

"The tiny hummingbird has long been a source of fascination for birdwatchers and naturalists alike. They number 300 species and Ronald Orenstein has a passion for all of them. Hummingbirds are the smallest birds in the world. .... In this book Orenstein covers all aspects of hummingbird natural history, their relationship with the plants on which they feed, the miracle of their flight, their elaborate social life and nesting behaviour, and their renowned feats of migration. More than 170 colour photographs of these magnificent creatures, taken in the wild, adorn the pages of Hummingbirds."

Hummingbirds: A Life-Size Guide to Every Species

Michael Fogden, Marianne Taylor, Sheri L. Williamson

2014

"Hummingbirds have always held popular appeal, with their visual brilliance, extraordinary flight dexterity, and jewel-like size and colour. But it is almost as if their beauty has blinded us to their importance. Only recently has their serious scientific study started to gain the attention it demands. With the increasing interest in biodiversity, and the hummingbirds position as the second most diverse bird group after flycatchers, they are a subject growing in significance with each new species discovery. Hummingbirds presents every species, arranged taxonomically, with over 300 birds shown in dazzling, life-size, cut-out photography. Concise descriptions, written by two of the worlds leading experts, are digitally enhanced through QR-code links to movie footage of flight, sound, and behaviour."

Hummingbirds and Butterflies

Bill Thompson III & Connie Toops

2011

"Hummingbirds and butterflies are some of the most beautiful visitors to a backyard, but they can also be some of the most elusive. This second collaboration between the Peterson Field Guide series and Bird Watcher's Digest includes tips on how to attract hummingbirds and butterflies to backyards - and how to identify them once they've arrived. Bill Thompson III and Connie Toops have decades of firsthand experience and have written the book in a fun, lighthearted style, providing both amateur and veteran nature watchers with need-to-know information, including where hummingbirds and butterflies live, what they eat, and the best garden plants to attract them. The species profiles of the 15 most common hummingbirds and 40 most common butterflies serve as a field guide, showing ranges, identifying marks, and preferred habitats."

Sibley's Hummingbirds of North America

David Sibley

2011

A 12 panel, laminated foldout guide to 18 species of Hummingbirds found in eastern North America.

Do Hummingbirds Hum?: Fascinating Answers to Questions About Hummingbirds

George C. West and Carol A. Butler

2010

"In Do Hummingbirds Hum? George C. West, who has studied and banded over 13,500 hummingbirds in Arizona, and Carol A. Butler provide an overview of hummingbird biology for the general reader, and more detailed discussions of their morphology and behavior for those who want to fly beyond the basics. Enriched with beautiful and rare photography, including a section in vivid color, this engaging question and answer guide offers readers a wide range of information about these glorious pollinators as well as tips for attracting, photographing, and observing hummingbirds in the wild or in captivity."

Amazing Hummingbirds: Unique Images and Characteristics

Stan Tekiela

2010

"Award-winning author/photographer Stan Tekiela has created a book that demonstrates why hummingbirds are among the most beloved and inspiring backyard visitors. Page upon page of unique photographs and fascinating details blend together to present the hummingbird like never before."

The Complete Book of Hummingbirds

Tony Tilford

2009

"This reference guide to hummingbirds features a comprehensive overview of the birds' biology, evolution, behavior, breeding, and migration patterns. You'll be awestruck by the amazing collection of full-color photographs depicting hummingbirds in flight and at rest in the Gallery of Hummingbirds. Discover the kinds of plants and flowers hummingbirds love to visit and how to create artificial feeding stations by making your own hummingbird food."

World of Hummingbirds

Eric Hanson

2009

"Engaging natural history information for a general audience on one of the most beloved groups of birds, including tips on attracting and watching hummingbirds. This book contains stunning photographs of common North American and exotic world species. It explains the details of the tiny hummingbird's amazing twice-yearly migration. More than a dozen species of hummingbirds live in North America, and scores more live in the southern tropics. Details of these fascinating creatures' lives in the wild are presented in an easy-to-read format."

Hummingbirds of Ecuador

Hal Pearson

Hummingbird Encounters: Illustrated with Watercolour

Joy Parsons

2007

Watercolour and line drawings of Hummingbirds.

Enjoying Hummingbirds: In the Wild and in Your Yard

Larry Gates

2007

"The hummingbird is one of the most attractive and popular birds in North America. Its small size, brilliant colouring, and ability to feed in flight make it a favourite backyard visitor. This colourful guide describes the fascinating life in the wild of a variety of hummingbird species and tells bird lovers how to attract hummingbirds to the backyard. Information from the most recently published research is augmented by personal experiences in the field as well as conversations with hummingbird experts. Topics include hummingbird behaviour, migration, and predators - all illustrated with full-colour photographs."

Backyard Visions: The Ruby-Throated Hummingbird

James & Joyce Martin

2007

"Backyard Visions: The Ruby-throated Hummingbird is primarily a compilation of our photographs of one of the world's smallest and most beautiful birds. In the first three sections of the book, we use those photographs to illustrate some of the characteristics of Ruby-throated Hummingbirds as well to illustrate a brief discussion of their life history. In the fourth section, we provide a discussion of the care and feeding of hummingbirds and how to attract them to your backyard. The final section is devoted to a discussion of the techniques that we have found useful in creating the photographs contained in this book."

Hummingbirds of Costa Rica

Michael and Patricia Fogden

2006

"Hummingbirds of Costa Rica features 44 of the 45 species of hummers that inhabit Costa Rica. (The Plain-capped starthroat, the missing species, lives only in the highest treetops. The authors have never encountered one at a height low enough to photograph.) Each bird is depicted in its natural habitat and with the flower with which it naturally associates. Hundreds of detailed close-ups show each bird's unique features and allow the reader to fully appreciate these stunning marvels of nature. Featuring the work of internationally acclaimed nature photographers Michael and Patricia Fogden, this richly illustrated guide covers: biology; predators; the relationship between hummingbirds and flowers; feeding strategies; a year in a hummingbird's life and a hummingbird site guide. Beautifully detailed photographs bring the exquisite creatures to life, and scientifically accurate and accessible text provides a comprehensive reference to Costa Rica, its hummingbirds and their ecosystem."

Hummingbirds: Jewels in Flight

Connie Toops

Reprint edition

2005

"This classic is now available again in hardcover at an amazingly low price! Hummingbirds: Jewels in Flight details in lively, personal text the natural history of this amazing bird with jewel-like colors and legendary aeronautical skills. Along with more than 100 dazzling full-color photos, Hummingbirds: Jewels in Flight offers: delightful details about the most frequently seen hummingbirds in the U.S.; expert advice on attracting hummingbirds by using feeders and special garden plantings · hotspots for viewing hummingbirds; and the "why" and "how" of their courtship, nesting, territorial, and migratory behaviors."

Hummingbirds of Texas

Clifford E. Shackelford, Madge M. Lindsay, C.Mark Klym

2005

"Written for a general audience, with spectacular images for birders and nature enthusiasts at every level, "Hummingbirds of Texas" reveals the enormous appeal of this tiniest and shiniest of birds. The book opens with a look at the many manifestations of the human attraction to these flying jewels. The Hummingbird Roundup, a citizen-science project run by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department has recruited hundreds of people to feed hummingbirds and record their activities throughout the state. The Rockport-Fulton Hummingbird Celebration, one of several festivals dedicated to hummingbirds, draws thousands of people each fall to the Texas coast where birds gather in huge numbers before migrating south. Bird-loving landowners invite the public to enjoy hummingbirds that live and breed on their ranches. Tips make attracting hummingbirds to your own lawn or garden easy, such as what to plant in the ground or in pots and how to choose and take care of feeders. The authors then showcase the nineteen different hummingbird species that have appeared in the region covered by the book."

Hummingbirds: Jewels On Air

Melanie Votaw

2003

"This full-colour photographic tour is perfect for budding and veteran hummingbird enthusiasts alike."

Hummingbirds of the West: Quickly Identify All of the Hummingbirds Found in Western United States

Pinau Merlin

2003

"Hummingbirds, with their iridescent plumage, pugnacious nature, and high-energy lifestyle, are some of North America's most captivating birds. They both fascinate and entertain. They also can be a challenge to identify for many people. That's why the Desert Museum produced this colorful new guide. Small enough to fit easily in a pocket, purse, daypack, or glove box, Hummingbirds of the West is perfect for anyone wishing to quickly identify those avian jewels of the Western skies. Hummingbirds of the West couldn't be easier to use: observe your hummer, then compare it with the color photos in the guide. Distinctive features are pointed out for each species, making positive identification a snap. The guide also includes fascinating facts about hummers, viewing tips for beginners, and more. Laminated for extended durability."

Stokes Beginner's Guide to Hummingbirds

Donald & Lilian Stokes

2002

"A pocket-size, brilliantly colorful, simple-to-use guide to hummingbirds, containing dozens of full-color photographs that enable readers of all ages to identify the most common species; range maps; tips on attracting hummingbirds, information on habitat needs, life cycle, food preferences; and much more."

Hummingbirds of North America

Sheri L Williamson

Houghton Mifflin

2002

"Covering 31 North American species, with more than 250 color photos and 33 maps, this is the most comprehensive field guide to hummingbirds. Introductory chapters cover the natural history of hummingbirds, ways to attract and feed them, and major hot spots in the United States and Canada for observing these fascinating birds. The 31 color plates illustrate 28 species, 7 hybrid combinations, 3 forms of albinism, and 4 species of sphinx moths often mistaken for hummingbirds. Species accounts provide in-depth information on plumage, molt, songs and calls, wing sounds, similar species, behavior, habitat, distribution, taxonomy, and conservation concerns. Detailed, up-to-date range maps show breeding, non-breeding, and year-round distribution, migration routes, and records outside expected areas of occurrence. For a few widespread migratory species, separate maps illustrate expected spring arrival dates."

Hummingbirds of North America: The Photographic Guide

Steve N.G. Howell

2003

"This book is the first ever, comprehensive photographic guide to the identification of all 24 species of hummingbirds to be seen as breeders or vagrants in North America. For all their startling colors, the speed of hummingbird flight and the often drab coloration of females and immatures make this group especially difficult to deal with in the field. The simple field marks are often poorly lit, hard to spot, or simply not shown by any particular individual under observation. But accurate identification of these popular and beautiful birds brings both real satisfaction and a welcome challenge to most birders. Steve Howell, a well-known and respected bird tour leader and author, has made a particular study of the finer points of hummingbird recognition and has specially chosen over 200 stunning photographs to complement the information given in his text. Some species feature as many as 14 photographs each. A detailed introduction covers the basics of hummingbird anatomy and plumage variation, allowing the observer to effectively focus on points that are of value in the field. New field marks are provided and old myths dispelled in this ground breaking and essential new guide."

Hummingbirds of North America: The Photographic Guide

Steve N.G. Howell

2002

"This book is the first ever, comprehensive photographic guide to the identification of all 24 species of hummingbirds to be seen as breeders or vagrants in North America.. For all their startling colours, the speed of hummingbird flight and the often drab coloration of females and immatures make this group especially difficult to deal with in the field. The simple field marks are often poorly lit, hard to spot, or simply not shown by any particular individual under observation. But accurate identification of these popular and beautiful birds brings both real satisfaction and a welcome challenge to most birders. Steve Howell, a well-known and respected bird tour leader and author, has made a particular study of the finer points of hummingbird recognition and has specially chosen over 200 stunning photographs to complement the information given in his text. Some species feature as many as 14 photographs. A detailed introduction covers the basics of hummingbird anatomy and plumage variation, allowing the observer to effectively focus on points that are of value in the field. New field marks are provided and old myths dispelled in this ground breaking and essential new guide."

Hummingbirds of the American West

Lynn Hassler

2002

"The American Southwest offers prime habitat for hummingbirds. Indeed, of the sixteen species of hummingbirds resident in North America, all but one either nest in or migrate through the region. In Hummingbirds of the American West, birding authority Lynn Hassler Kaufman describes in detail the field marks, behavioral characteristics, and habitat requirements of each species. Extraordinary color photographs also capture these fascinating birds in flight, feeding, and nesting. Hummingbirds of the American West identifies prime locations in the deserts and sky island mountain ranges of the American Southwest where avid birders are most likely to encounter these remarkable creatures."

The World of the Hummingbird

Robert Burton

2001

"The hummingbird is a wonder of physiology. This tiny creature is a record breaker on many fronts, from its highly efficient use of food for energy to its impressive annual long-distance migrations. This text introduces the hummingbird and explores its natural history, its essential relationship with plant life, the miracle of its flight, its elaborate social life as well as its nesting behaviour and renowned migratory habits. Features 100 images and freeze-frame in-flight colour photographs."

Hummingbirds of Colombia

Luis A. Mazariegos

2000

A large format book with 172 colour photographs of 107 species of hummingbirds found in Colombia. Accompanying text includes discussion of hummingbird natural history, evolution of hummingbirds and flowers, biodiversity and conservation.

The World of Hummingbirds: An Illustrated Guide to These Marvels of Nature

Tony Tilford

2000

"This attractive book is a comprehensive guide to the wonderful world of Hummingbirds. Written by Tony Tilford who has researched and photographed hummingbirds for many years it features amazing pictures from the collections of some of the world's foremost hummingbird photographers. It discusses hummingbirds' extraordinary biology, their breeding and life-cycles, and even suggests how hummingbirds might be attracted into your yard / garden if you are lucky enough to live in a part of the world where they can be found. Together with a full-colour gallery of hummingbirds that gives details and a listing of hummingbird websites, The World of Hummingbirds is a richly illustrated book that is as fascinating as it is beautiful."

The World of the Hummingbird

Harry Thurston

2000

"Explores the life of the hummingbird, with a close look at its physiology, habits, and behaviors."

Hummingbirds: A Portrait of the Animal World

Hal H. Wyss

2000

"The hummingbird is notable for its amazing ability to hover in midair and even to fly upside down, its iridescent plumage, its extraordinary migration patterns, and unusual courtship and mating rituals. This volume offers descriptions of the hummingbird's habits along with spectacular full-color photographs."

Hummingbirds: a Celebration of Nature's Most Dazzling Creatures

Ben Sonder

1999

"A fascinating, close-up look at the world of the hummingbird combines one hundred full-color photographs with an authoritative account of the history, biology, evolution, and unique characteristics of various species of hummingbirds."

Ruby-Throated Hummingbird

Robert Sargent

1999

"The Ruby-throated Hummingbird is one of the most attractive and engaging birds in North America. Its small size, brilliant colouring, and ability to feed in flight make it a favourite backyard visitor. Despite its fragile appearance, it is one of the heartiest species in the world, making an astonishing twice-yearly non-stop flight across the Gulf of Mexico."

The Ruby-Throated Hummingbird

June Osborne

1998

"This title paints a detailed portrait of the best-known hummingbird in the US, recounting its life cycle through accounts of a typical day in its life and stories of the birds' migrations between their summer breeding grounds and their winter homes. It also reveals how to identify males, females, young and mature birds."

Hummingbirds: Jewels in Flight

Connie Toops

Paperback edition

1998

"Prominent in myth and legend, the hummingbird is revered for its jewel-like colours and legendary aeronautical skills: it can speed as fast as thirty miles an hour, fly straight up, sideways or backwards, or even hover like a helicopter. Some say the 319 species of hummingbirds that range over South and North America are more highly evolved than any other birds. Without question, theirs is a fascinating natural history. Toops details that history with a lively discussion of courtship, nesting, and territorial and migratory behaviours. In particular, she emphasises eight species of hummingbirds seen regularly in the United States. Includes chapters on landscaping to attract hummingbirds, practical suggestions for selecting and maintaining feeders, and the best locales to find hummingbirds. In addition, a section of hummingbird legends is included."

Handbook of the Birds of the World, Vol. 5: Barn-Owls to Hummingbirds

Edited by Josep Del Hoyo, Andrew Elliott and Jordi Sargatal

1998

759 pages, 76 colour plates, 406 colour photos, 758 distribution maps.

This volume covers covered are barn owls, typical owls, oilbirds, frogmouths, owlet-nightjars, potoos, nightjars, swifts, tree-swifts and hummingbirds.

The Hummingbirds of North America

Paul A. Johnsgard

2nd edition

1997

"An updated survey of the comparative biologies and individual life histories of the 23 North American species of hummingbirds occurring north of Mexico, as well as 25 additional Mexican species. An identification key, a glossary of technical terms, a list of origins of scientific and names, and a bibliography of several hundred references are included."

The Nature of Hummingbirds: Rainbows on Wings

Harry Thurston

1996

"Portrait of the hummingbird offering a close-up view of the birds' physiology, as well as their habits and behaviours."

Hummingbirds: A Wildlife Handbook

Kim Long

1997

"A combination of illustrated field guide, fact book, and folklore collection, "Hummingbirds" is a new kind of wildlife book. This concise, illustrated handbook presents an accurate, informative portrait of hummingbirds in their natural habitat, along with an examination of their relationship to man."

The Sun Catchers: Hummingbirds

Jeff and April Sayre

1996

"This text aims to explore the wonders of six species of North American hummingbirds. It provides a descriptive portrait of the birds and covers every aspect of hummingbird behaviour and daily life, and offers tips on attracting hummingbirds to your garden."

The Secret Lives of Hummingbirds

David Wentworth Lazaroff

1995

"There is a sense of mystery that surrounds hummingbirds: Why are they so small? What makes it possible for them to hover? Why are they so colorful? Do they ever rest? This book gives the often amazing answers. The Secret Lives of Hummingbirds takes the reader into the high-energy world of North America's smallest bird. Hearts that beat 500 to more than 1200 times per minute. Wings that buzz at as much as 52 beats per second. And respiration that can clock in at up to 600 breaths per minute. But their energetic lifestyle is only one facet of the secret lives of hummingbirds. Illustrated with twenty-nine full-color photographs, The Secret Lives of Hummingbirds is a treat for birders, naturalists, or anyone else who can't resist the allure of these eye-catching, pugnacious miniature birds. The book also includes a close-up look at the Desert Museum's famous hummingbird aviary as well as tips on how to enjoy and attract wild hummingbirds."

Hummingbirds of North America: Attracting, Feeding, and Photographing

Dan True

1993

"Provides detailed information on each of the sixteen species, includes maps showing where the species can be spotted, and discusses how to photograph hummingbirds in flight."

Hummingbirds: Jewels in Flight

Connie Toops

1992

"Describes the characteristics and behavior of hummingbirds, shows the major species, and includes advice on attracting hummingbirds with feeders and special plantings."

Hummingbirds

Crawford H. Greenewalt

1991

"A reprint of an edition published for the American Museum of Natural History by Doubleday in 1960."

The Hummingbird Book: The Complete Guide to Attracting, Identifying and Enjoying Hummingbirds

Donald and Lillian Stokes

1990

"The authors of The Bird Feeder Book here provide the first guide to hummingbirds - how to choose and maintain a feeder, how to attract birds, and how to photograph them. Full information on the hummingbirds is given including nesting, courtship, territorial and migratory behaviour."

John Gould's Hummingbirds

John Gould

1990

Reprint of all the plates from the complete 5 volume work by Gould originally issued between 1849 and 1861 plus the supplement to that work from the 1880s. Includes 418 full page, full colour plates by Gould and others."

Hummingbirds of the Caribbean

Esther Quesada Tyrell

1990

"This companion volume to Hummingbirds: Their Life and Behavior sharpens the focus on the Caribbean Islands, home of the most resplendent and beautiful birds of the western hemisphere. 266 full-color photographs."

Hummingbirds

Scott Weidensaul

1989

Hummers: Hummingbirds of North America

Millie Miller and Cyndi Nelson

1987

"Reminiscent of nineteenth-century botanical prints, the full-color illustrations in these small nature guides are miniature watercolors, as delightful to look at as they are accurate. Beneath each illustration the reader will find the popular and scientific names, size, range, and a concise description of the habitat or an interesting bit of lore. Ideal for the backpacker or dayhiker, the books fit handily in the pocket."

The Way of the Hummingbird: In Legend, History & Today's Gardens

Virginia C. Holmgren

Capra

1986

"Seemingly everything you've ever wanted to know about hummingbirds is packed into this comprehensive volume by a contributing editor to Birdwatcher's Digest. Holmgren includes legends and scientific facts (for example, the hummingbird's unusual plumage is explained first in Mayan Indian stories and then from a scientific point of view), as well as obscure details."

Hummingbirds, Their Life and Behavior: A Photographic Study of the North American Species

Esther Quesada Tyrell

Crown Publications

1985

"Robert Tyrrell, the world's foremost photographer of hummingbirds, has successfully captured on film the utterly fascinating day-to-day activities of our colorful North American species. Included among the 235 full-color pictures are never-before-photographed sequences such as nesting, molting, preening and territorial aggression, as well as an unprecedented portfolio of hummingbirds feeding from wildflowers. Esther Tyrrell has written the accompanying illuminating text, by far the most complete and up-to-date information on hummingbirds ever assembled, which will make this book the definitive source for both scientists and the general reader for years to come."

The Hummingbirds of North America

Paul A. Johnsgard

Smithsonian Institution Press

1983

"A survey of the comparative biology and individual life histories of the 23 North American species of hummingbirds occurring north of Mexico. A glossary of technical terms and a 200-reference bibliography are included."

Hummingbirds

A.J. Mobbs

1982

Ecology And Evolution Of Lek Mating Behavior In The Long-Tailed Hermit Hummingbird

F. Gary Stiles and Larry L. Wolf

American Ornithologists' Union

1979

A 78 page study.

Contents:

• Introduction
• Methods And Materials
• Leks, Territories, And Lek Behavior
• Foraging Patterns
• Temporal Patterning Of Lek Activity
• Lek Dynamics
• Discussion
• Summary

The Life of the Hummingbird

Alexander Skutch

Crown Publishers

1973

Includes full colour plates of 80 species.

Hummingbirds & Their Flowers

Karen A. Grant & Verne Grant

1968

Hummingbirds: Flying Jewels

Walter Scheithauer.

Arthur Baker

1967

Includes many colour photographs.

Hummingbirds

Crawford H. Greenewalt

Doubleday

1960

"Definitive study of 65 known species of hummingbird: physical characteristics, habitat, behavior and flight dynamics, much more. Magnificently illustrated complete text containing much groundbreaking information. Published under the auspices of The American Museum of Natural History. 75 full-color photographs. 163 black-and-white illustrations. Index. Maps. Graphs. Diagrams."

Genera Of Humming Birds Being Also A Complete Monograph Of These Birds

Supplement

Adolphe Bouchard

From the preface:

In preparing this volume I have done my best; but I do not presume that it is without fault or errors, and it is possible that in the next twenty years or so, many new forms with be discovered, and will enable other authors to make a better classification of these bird: but nevertheless, I think that this work, like those of my predecessors, from Linne, Viellot, Gmelein, Lesson, Jardine, &c, to Gould, Mulsant, Bourcier, Elliott, Salvin, Berlepsch, Lawrence, Ridgway, Reichenbach, Heine, and others, will help greatly to attain that end. Each author must be satisfied in adding a stone to the edifice until its perfect completion.

The Humming Birds

Robert Ridgway

United States National Museum

1892

From the introduction:

Of all the numerous groups into which the birds are divided there is none other so numerous in species, so varied in form, so brilliant in plumage, and so different from all others in their mode of life. Inhabitants exclusively of the tropical and temperate portions of America, they constitute the most charming element, in the wonderfully varied bird-life of the New World. Buffon considers the Humming Bird "of all animated beings . . . the most elegant in form and brilliant in color. The stones and metals polished by art are not comparable to this gem of nature. She has placed it in the order of birds, but among the tiniest of the race maxime miranda in minimus; she has loaded it with all the gifts of which she has only given other birds a share. Agility, rapidity, nimbleness, grace, and rich attire all belong to this little favorite. The emerald, the ruby, and the topaz glitter in its garb, which is never soiled with the dust of earth, for, leading an aerial life, it rarely touches the turf even for an instant. Always in the air, flying from flower to flower, it shares their freshness and their splendor, lives on their nectar, and only inhabits those climates in which they are unceasingly renewed." Audubon calls the Humming Bird a "glittering fragment of the rainbow," and asks "Who, on seeing this lovely little creature moving on humming winglets through the air, suspended as if by magic in it, flitting from one flower to another, with motions as graceful as they are light and airy, pursuing its course and yielding new delights wherever it is seen . . . would not pause, admire, and turn his mind with reverence toward the Almighty Creator, the wonders of whose hand we at every step discover, and of whose sublime conception we everywhere observe the manifestations in his admirable system of creation." Buffon's characterization, however, is somewhat inaccurate and slightly overdrawn, since nature has not endowed Humming Birds "with all the gifts of which she has only given other birds a share," the absence of melodious voice being, as a rule, a conspicuous deficiency of the tribe, while the statement that they are "always in the air" is very inaccurate, Humming Birds requiring the same repose which other kinds find necessary.

Catalogue Of The Picariae In The Collection Of The British Museum

Catalogue Of The Birds In The British Museum, Volume XVI

Upupae, Trochili: Osbert Salvin

Coraciae: Ernst Hartert

Printed By Order Of The Trustees

Sold by: Longman & Co.; B. Quaritch; Kegan Paul, Trench, Trubner & Co.; and at the British Museum (Natural History)

1892

From the preface:

"The preparation of the present volume was commenced in the year 1887, but its publication has been delayed from several causes: the desire of profiting by the most recent attempts at classification rendered changes in the serial arrangement of the families necessary; Mr. Salvin, who at first intended to undertake the whole of the Macrochirous families, together with the Podargidae, was prevented by other engagements from proceeding beyond the Trochilidae, so that a substitute had to be introduced to the work; and, finally, the material to be catalogued was unusually heavy, as it not only comprises the two largest collections of Humming-Birds that have been made hitherto, viz. those of the late Mr. J. Gould and of Messrs. Godman and Salvin, but was also increased by the accessions of the last four years. Consequently the contents of this volume greatly exceed those of any of the previous ones, as will be seen from the following statement: Upupae, 16; Trochili, 482; Cypselidae, 78; Caprimulgidae, 86; Podargidae, 24; Steatornithidae 1. Of the 687 species recorded, 50 are not represented in the Museum; but besides the 211 types of species admitted as valid, the Collection contains 62 other typical specimens, the names of which are now relegated to the synonymic lists. With regard to the types of Trochilidae, their number cannot bo given with absolute certainty, as Gould did not always pay regard to distinctive labelling or to the preservation of individual specimens which he would have wished to be regarded as the types of the species named and described by him."

A Monograph Of The Trochilidæ, Or Family Of Humming-Birds

Supplement

John Gould

Completed after the authors death by R. Bowdler Sharpe

Henry Southeran & Co

1887

Issued in 5 parts between 1880 and 1887. Collected in a single volume dated 1887. Following the authors death in 1881 the final parts and the collected edition were completed by R. Bowdler Sharpe.

Preface (R. Bowdler Sharpe):

"It fell to my lot, on Mr. Gould's death, to complete the present work together with the others left unfinished at the time of his decease. The Plates for this 'Supplement' were nearly all drawn during the lifetime of Mr. Gould; to these I have added certain others as representing species well worthy of illustration, the specimens having been lent to me by Mr. Osbert Salvin. It will be noticed that a large number of species are included in the present 'Supplement' without the accompanying plates. Whether it was the intention of Mr. Gould to have enumerated these in the work I know not; but as he originally meant to complete the 'Supplement' in four parts, I fancy that he would only have figured the most striking of the species described since the completion of the 'Monograph.' I have, however, endeavoured to include in this supplementary volume descriptions of all the species of Trochilidge discovered since 1861, when the 'Monograph' was finished; and this course will, I trust, commend itself to ornithologists. My thanks are due to Messrs. Sotheran for allowing me thus to render the work as complete as possible, notwithstanding the pecuniary loss involved by such a proceeding. It is scarcely necessary for me to record here my obligations to Mr. Elliot's admirable 'Synopsis of the Humming-Birds,' as the pages of this book reveal how much I have been indebted to his volume; and to Mr. Salvin I owe the deepest acknowledgment, for his advice in planning the present work and for having supervised the proofs of each Part."

Catalogue Of Trochilidae In The Collection Of The United States National Museum

Robert Ridgway

Proceedings of The United States National Museum

1880

Opening lines:

"The following catalogue enumerates all the species of Humming Birds which are contained in the collection of the National Museum, with the localities represented, the latter being in many cases additional to those given in standard text-books relating to this family of birds. The chief aim of the list is to show what species are wanted to complete the collection, and exchanges to this end are respectfully solicited."

Humming-Birds

Mary & Elizabeth Kirby

1874

102 pages with 5 colour plates and additional line drawings.

A Monograph Of The Trochilidae, Or Family Of Humming-Birds

Volume I

John Gould

Published by the author

1849-61

This is volume one of a five volume collected edition published in 1861. The work was originally published for subscribers in 25 parts between 1849 and 1861.

From the preface:

"That early impressions of the mind are vividly retained, while events of the day flit from our memory, must have been experienced by every one. How vivid, then, is my recollection of the first Humming-Bird which met my admiring gaze! with what delight did I examine its tiny body and feast my eyes on its glittering plumage ! This early impression, I well remember, gradually increased into an earnest desire to attain a more intimate acquaintance with the lovely group of birds to which it pertained, and was still further strengthened when an opportunity was afforded me of inspecting the, at that time, unique collection of the Trochilidae formed by the late Mr. George Loddiges, of Hackney. This gentleman and myself were imbued with a kindred spirit in the love we both entertained for this family of living gems. To describe the feeling which animated us with regard to them is impossible; it can, in fact, only be realized by those who have made Natural History a study, and who pursue the investigation of its charming mysteries with ardour and delight. That our enthusiasm and excitement with regard to most things become lessened, if not deadened, by time, particularly when we have acquired what we vainly consider a complete knowledge of the subject, is, I fear, too often the case with most of us ; not so, however, I believe with those who take up the study of the Family of Humming-Birds. Certainly I can affirm that such is not the case with myself; for the pleasure which I experience on seeing a Humming-Bird is as great at the present moment as when I first saw one. During the first twenty years of my acquaintance with these wonderful works of creation, my thoughts were often directed to them in the day, and my night dreams have not unfrequently carried me to their native forests in the distant country of America."

A Monograph Of The Trochilidae, Or Family Of Humming-Birds

Volume II

John Gould

Published by the author

1849-61

This is volume two of a five volume collected edition published in 1861. The work was originally published for subscribers in 25 parts between 1849 and 1861.

A Monograph Of The Trochilidae, Or Family Of Humming-Birds

Volume III

John Gould

Published by the author

1849-61

This is volume three of a five volume collected edition published in 1861. The work was originally published for subscribers in 25 parts between 1849 and 1861.

A Monograph Of The Trochilidae, Or Family Of Humming-Birds

Volume IV

John Gould

Published by the author

1849-61

This is volume four of a five volume collected edition published in 1861. The work was originally published for subscribers in 25 parts between 1849 and 1861.

A Monograph Of The Trochilidae, Or Family Of Humming-Birds

Volume V

John Gould

Published by the author

1849-61

This is volume five of a five volume collected edition published in 1861. The work was originally published for subscribers in 25 parts between 1849 and 1861.