Hummingbird

Hummingbird is a type of bird known for its small size, rapid wing flapping, and ability to hover in mid-air. They are native to the Americas and are the smallest of birds, most species measuring 7.5–13 cm (3–5 in) in length. The smallest extant bird species is a hummingbird, the 5 cm (2.0 in) bee hummingbird, which weighs less than 2.0 g (0.07 oz).

Characteristics

Hummingbirds have many physical characteristics that distinguish them from other birds. They have a specialized long and straight bill that is used to extract nectar from the center of long, tubular flowers. The hummingbird's tongue, which is long and can be extended beyond the length of the bill, is used to extract nectar from flowers.

Hummingbirds are known for their unique flight capabilities. They can fly at speeds exceeding 15 m/s (54 km/h; 34 mph); they are also the only group of birds with the ability to fly backwards. The hummingbird's rapid wing flapping rate, typically around 50 times per second, allows them to hover in mid-air, a feature that is unique among birds.

Diet

The primary component of the hummingbird's diet is nectar, a sweet liquid inside certain flowers. They also eat insects and spiders, especially when feeding young. Hummingbirds are attracted to brightly colored flowers, which they can see better than other birds due to their ability to perceive ultraviolet light.

Reproduction

Hummingbirds are solitary in all aspects of life other than breeding; and the male's only involvement in the reproductive process is the actual mating with the female. They lay the smallest eggs of all birds, with an average mass of 1 g (0.035 oz), or about 10% of the weight of a human baby at birth.

Conservation

Many species of hummingbirds are currently threatened with extinction, primarily due to habitat loss and destruction. Conservation efforts are being made to protect these species, but their small size and rapid metabolism make them particularly vulnerable to changes in their environment.

See also

• Bird
• Nectar
• Conservation

Hummingbird Resources
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