Hummingbird
Hummingbirds are a family of very small birds in the biological family Trochilidae, found only in the Americas.
Hummingbirds are a family of very small birds in the biological family Trochilidae, found only in the Americas. They are known for rapid wingbeats, hovering flight, and their reliance on nectar, though they also eat small insects and spiders.
What it is
Hummingbirds belong to the family Trochilidae and are closely related to swifts. They occur from Alaska to Tierra del Fuego, but the greatest diversity is in Central and South America. Several species regularly occur in Canada during the breeding season or migration, making them familiar birds to Canadian readers.
Key details
Hummingbirds are among the smallest birds, with the bee hummingbird often cited as the smallest living bird. They can hover in place and are the only birds able to fly backwards. Their long bills and specialized tongues are adapted for feeding on flower nectar, and all species also consume small arthropods, especially insects and spiders.
Why it matters
As they move between flowers, hummingbirds transfer pollen and can act as important pollinators. Their feeding behavior links them closely to flowering plants in the ecosystems where they live, making them a key part of many habitats across the Americas.
In short
- Hummingbirds are native only to the Americas, with about 340 living species.
- They are the only birds that can fly backwards and hover in place.
- They feed mainly on nectar but also eat insects and spiders.
- Several species visit Canada during breeding season or migration.
Several hummingbird species regularly occur in Canada during the breeding season or migration, making them familiar birds to Canadian readers.
Quick questions
What is a hummingbird?
Can hummingbirds fly backwards?
How many hummingbird species are there?
Sources
- Smithsonian National Zoo — https://nationalzoo.si.edu/migratory-birds/hummingbirdsSupports: Family Trochilidae, distribution across the Americas, size range, species count, throat gorget description.
- Britannica Kids — https://kids.britannica.com/kids/article/hummingbird/353273Supports: Americas-only range, small size, hovering and backward flight, nectar feeding, pollination role, Canadian and U.S. occurrence.
- Kaytee — https://www.kaytee.com/learn-care/wild-bird/hummingbird-factsSupports: Backward flight, lack of smell, nectar feeding, use of legs, species count and general facts.