It seems almost impossible that a hummingbird could even exist.
It seems almost impossible that a hummingbird could even exist.
A bird no bigger than a large beetle, covered with feathers that glow and sparkle in the sun, it hovers on wings that beat more than 50 times per second, dancing in front of colorful flowers to sip sweet nectar.
A bird no bigger than a large beetle, covered with feathers that glow and sparkle in the sun, it hovers on wings that beat more than 50 times per second, dancing in front of colorful flowers to sip sweet nectar.
That would make it remarkable enough. But on top of that, some hummingbirds migrate long distances— hundreds of miles, or even thousands—leaving cold climates for the winter and returning in the spring. Read on for insights into how they accomplish these amazing travels.
That would make it remarkable enough. But on top of that, some hummingbirds migrate long distances— hundreds of miles, or even thousands—leaving cold climates for the winter and returning in the spring. Read on for insights into how they accomplish these amazing travels.
Migrating Hummingbirds Travel Alone
Many kinds of birds, from geese to goldfinches, typically migrate in flocks. But hummingbirds travel as loners—each individual navigates on its own.
Migrating Hummingbirds Travel AloneMany kinds of birds, from geese to goldfinches, typically migrate in flocks. But hummingbirds travel as loners—each individual navigates on its own.
Even young birds making their first southward migration fly solo, without any guidance from their parents. Instead, they rely on instinct.
Even young birds making their first southward migration fly solo, without any guidance from their parents. Instead, they rely on instinct.
Hummingbirds have a rapid metabolism, burning energy quickly, so they frequently stop to feed as they travel.
Hummingbirds have a rapid metabolism, burning energy quickly, so they frequently stop to feed as they travel.
When Do Hummingbirds Migrate?
The timing of a hummingbird’s migration and the route that it takes are dictated mostly by instincts rather than by conscious choices.
When Do Hummingbirds Migrate?The timing of a hummingbird’s migration and the route that it takes are dictated mostly by instincts rather than by conscious choices.