Two Hummingbirds: Which is Which? Here are some clues people use to tell these two hummingbirds apart. They are called field marks. What else did you see? What questions do you have about these tiny birds?   Ruby-throated hummingbird (male): Red throat that sparkles (can look black in different light) Greenish back, "dirty" white below Forked tail   Rufous hummingbird (male): Throat, tail, and sides that are brownish-red or rust colored (That's what rufous means!) White chest    Photos: Top - Jerry Blinn, AviSys; Bottom - Dean Briggins, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service More >> This Season Teachers Kids Orientation Registration Search Copyright 1997-2009 Journey North. All Rights Reserved. Questions or comments? Contact us.