ANNA’S HUMMINGBIRDS
Anna’s Hummingbirds, named after Anna Messéna, Duchess of Rivoli, used to breed only in northern Baja California. As ornamental plants from down south have been transplanted up the Pacific coast, the nesting sites of Anna’s has expanded along with them.
Males have iridescent emerald backs, a gray belly, a light colored eyebrow and a sparkling rose-pink throat, called a gorget. Named after the metallic collars that knights wore to protect their throats, the gorget of the male Anna’s extends the top of the breast and over its head. Whether or not you see the color depends on the angle of the head and how it catches the light. At the right angle, their throats become quite reflective and will glitter a bright pink. If they turn their heads slightly, the color disappears and the throat no longer sparkles, almost appearing dark and colorless. Females are metallic green above and gray below, with small bits of red spotting on the throat and a pale eyebrow. Immature males have a blotchy crown and gorget.