Despite their small size, Ruby-throated Hummingbirds make a variety of calls and sounds. Interestingly, they are incredibly territorial, and you will often hear them battling with other hummingbirds.

Below, you will learn how to identify the CALLS, TWITTERING, and HUMMING of a Ruby-throated Hummingbird (Archilochus colubris). These common hummingbirds are heard across eastern North America in many different habitats, including near nectar feeders in many backyards!

Ruby-throated Hummingbird Calls:

• Make sure to press PLAY on the audio files below. 🙂

Sound #1: The twittering squeak

A Ruby-throated Hummingbird’s most common noise is a series of twittering squeaks, which sort of sounds like a mouse! Listen for these rapid, squeaky chirps from both males and females as hummingbirds chase each other in territorial disputes. Males also use it to warn other males who have entered their territory.

I commonly hear my hummingbirds making this sound when they approach my feeders, especially if I’m standing nearby! Once you know what to listen for, you will likely start to hear your hummingbirds before seeing them.

Sound #2: Wing humming

The other noise that Ruby-throated Hummingbirds make does NOT come from their vocal cords. Instead, it’s produced by their rapidly beating wings!

True to their name, both sexes hum with their wings, which resembles a buzzing bee. I know many people who have panicked that a bee was nearby, only to smile with relief at the sight of a hummingbird. 😊

Creating this humming sound with their wings is no small feat. Ruby-throated Hummingbirds can beat their wings up to 50 times per second! The noise is slightly louder and higher pitched with males.

• View ID guides for the animals that live near YOU!

Watch the short video below for more examples of calls, twittering, and sounds from a Ruby-throated Hummingbird.

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Have you heard the calls and sounds of a Ruby-throated Hummingbird before?

If so, please let us know below!