The Rufous Hummingbird (Selasphorus rufus) is known for its fiery plumage, with males displaying bright orange-red feathers. This tiny bird, approximately 3 inches long, migrates long distances from Mexico to as far north as Alaska. It's renowned for its agility and fierce territorial behavior.

Selasphorus rufus, commonly known as the Rufous Hummingbird, is native to North America. Its geographical distribution includes regions in the western United States, such as the states of Alaska, Washington, Oregon, and California, as well as southwestern Canada, particularly in British Columbia. During the non-breeding season, it migrates to parts of Mexico, primarily in the central and southern regions.

The Rufous Hummingbird typically inhabits temperate regions with diverse environmental conditions. During the breeding season, it is found in open areas such as meadows, forest edges, and gardens with abundant flowering plants. The climate in these regions is generally cool and moist, supporting rich vegetation. In its wintering grounds in Mexico, the species adapts to warmer climates, often found in subtropical or tropical dry forests and montane forests.

Selasphorus rufus plays a significant role as a pollinator in its ecosystem, feeding on nectar from flowers with its long bill and specialized tongue. Its ecological niche is primarily as a nectarivore, but it also consumes small insects and spiders to supplement its diet. This hummingbird is highly territorial, often defending feeding territories aggressively against other hummingbirds and insects.