Pictures > Birds > Hummingbirds

Hummingbird

Native only to the Americas, Hummingbirds are known for their ability to hover in mid-air by rapidly flapping their wings, 15-80 times per second (depending on the species). They also have the ability fly backwards or veritcally, and maintain position while drinking from flower blossoms. The hummingbird is small (typically weighs approximately 3 g (0.106 ounces) and has a length of 10-12 cm (3.5-4 inches), with a long thin beak allowing the bird to feed upon nectar deep within flowers. They are named for the characteristic hum made by their wings. This bird has the most glittering plumage in the bird world. Males are usually more brightly colored.