Allen's Hummingbird

This remarkable bird visited a feeder in Manteo, North Carolina during the winter of 2002–2003.

Thanks to Susan Campbell for sharing these photos and associated comments with us.

	This young male has only three gorget feathers so far but there is substantial streaking in his throat.
	The green back and uniformly shaped tail feathers characteristic of an Allen's Hummingbird are clear.
	Note both new (brighter) and old green feathers on the upper back. A Rufous would have at least some entirely red-brown feathers showing in this area.
	Note the uniformly rounded tips on the newly emerged innermost two pairs of tail feathers (rectrices). A Rufous would have a clear notch on the inner web of the second set.