Allen’s Hummingbird named Audubon California’s 2014 Bird of the Year

One of California’s most beloved birds today was named the 2014 Audubon California Bird of the Year. The Allen’s Hummingbird – which lives exclusively along the Pacific Coast from Mexico to Oregon – received the designation after totaling nearly 30 percent of votes cast during an online poll this fall.

The Allen’s Hummingbird migrates between wintering grounds in Mexico and breeding ground in California and southern Oregon, though some birds will stay in the Golden State year-round. The Allen’s Hummingbird prefers coastal areas with trees and shrubs, and is commonly seen taking nectar from flowers. It is also a popular visitor to backyard feeders.

“Every one of the nominated birds is beloved by Californians, but I’m not surprised to see the Allen’s Hummingbird come out on top,” said Brigid McCormack, executive director of Audubon California. “Everybody loves hummingbirds. It’s so small and delicate, but also remarkably hardy.”  

An adult Allen’s Hummingbirds is about 3.5 inches long, with a wingspan of about 4 inches. It has an iridescent red throat and a shiny green back, and it weighs about the same as three or four paperclips. 

While the Allen’s Hummingbird is not considered to be of conservation concern, Audubon researchers fear that could change in the coming years as development and non-native plants continue to chip away at its coastal habitat. Global warming is also predicted to have an impact on the Allen’s Hummingbird. By 2080, the species could lose up to 90 percent of its breeding range, forcing it to find more hospitable areas elsewhere. To those who love watching the Allen’s Hummingbird at their feeder, this could be a big loss.  

More than 8,800 votes were cast in this year’s Bird of the Year poll. The Allen’s Hummingbird finished with 29.4 percent of the vote. The Western Yellow-billed Cuckoo came in second place with 23.2 percet, followed closely by the Brown Pelican at 23 percent.

 “Every species nominated was a focus of our conservation work over the last year,” said McCormack. “Our hope is that the attention this award brings to the Allen’s Hummingbird will help raise awareness of the conservation needs of all birds throughout the state. We encourage everyone to go outside or look out their window for the Allen’s Hummingbird. It is a state treasure.” 

About Audubon California  

Audubon California is building a better future for California by bringing people together to appreciate, enjoy and protect our spectacular outdoor treasures. With more than 150,000 members and supporters in California, and an affiliated 48 local Audubon chapters, Audubon California is a field program of the National Audubon Society. 

More information is available at www.ca.audubon.org.

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