Amazing Hummingbird Facts
All year round, the Cedar House on the Hill B&B is visited by Hummingbirds. One group stays even in the cold winter month. Jennifer Hill collected some interesting facts about the wonderful small birds and we would like to share them with you.
- Hummingbirds
are found only in the western hemisphere. There are approximately 338 species
between Alaska and Tierra del Fuego.
- Hummingbirds
range in size, from 5.7 cm to 21.6com and typically weigh approximately 3
grams.
- The
heart of a hummingbird beats 1,260 time a minute. A resting wings 70-80 times a
second, others as slow as 18.
- The
life span of a hummingbird can be as long as 12 years, however most only live
three to five years. Predation is a major cause of mortality.
- Males
are polygamous (i.e. have more than one mate). Females take care of the nest,
while males defend the territory. A female can care for more than a nest at a
time. She might be building a nest while caring for already-hatched chicks.
- Hummingbirds
can fly backwards and upside-down. Their wings rotate at the shoulder, allowing
them to make a forward stroke followed by a backward stroke – hence they can
hover.
- More
than 150 native North American plants depend exclusivity on hummingbirds to
pollinate them. Along with nectar, mature hummingbirds can eat as many as 500
insects per day. Baby hummingbirds need protein to grow, so their mothers spend
a great deal of time catching small bugs. She also regurgitates nectar to feed
them.
- Anna’s
Hummingbirds can be seen on Vancouver Island year-round; Rufous Hummingbirds
from March to August.
By
Jennifer Hill, The Victorian Bird House