Have you ever wondered whether the hummingbird hovering near your feeder is a male or female?
These tiny, fast-moving creatures may look similar at first glance, but with a few simple tips, you can easily unlock the secret to identifying their gender.

In this guide, we'll walk you through the key physical and behavioral differences between male and female hummingbirds — perfect for curious birdwatchers and hummingbird feeder owners!

 1. Coloration: The Most Obvious Clue

Male hummingbirds are often more vibrant and colorful than females.

• Look for iridescent throats (called gorgets) that shimmer in red, orange, or violet hues depending on the species.

• Females usually have duller, muted tones, often with plain white, green, or light gray throats.

Example:
In Ruby-throated hummingbirds, males have a brilliant ruby-red throat, while females lack this flash of color.

 2. Size and Shape: Subtle But Telling

• Females are generally slightly larger than males — a survival advantage during nesting.

• Males may appear more sleek or slender in flight.

 3. Behavior: Who’s the Boss at the Feeder?

Male hummingbirds tend to be more territorial and aggressive, especially during the breeding season.

• If one hummingbird is chasing all the others away from your feeder — it's likely a male!

• Females are often more passive, especially when feeding or nesting.

 4. Nesting Clues

If you spot a hummingbird building a nest or feeding chicks, it’s definitely a female. Males do not participate in nesting or chick-rearing.

 Bonus Tip: Use a Camera or Binoculars

Hummingbirds are fast! Use a zoom lens or binoculars to freeze their motion and get a closer look at their coloring and behavior.

Final Thoughts

Distinguishing male vs. female hummingbirds is not only fun but also enhances your birdwatching experience. Whether you're setting up a new Tiffany-style hummingbird feeder or just enjoying nature, knowing who’s visiting your backyard adds a whole new level of wonder.

Looking to attract more hummingbirds to your garden?
Check out our handcrafted stained glass hummingbird feeders — beautiful, durable, and designed to make every birdwatching moment magical.