Hum of the Ruby-throated Hummingbird

Posted in Wildlife A-Z | April 2, 2010 | Comment Now




The striking red throat is characteristic of the male ruby-throated hummingbird. The female hummingbird lacks this coloration. The acrobatic style of flying has not been matched by other birds. They beat their wings nearly 53 times a second. If you wish to witness their ruby throats, you would need to exchange a quick glance.

The ruby-throated hummingbird tends to hover frequently. They also fly upside down and backwards. Due to the presence of short legs, ruby-throated hummingbirds find it difficult to walk or hop.

These hummingbirds primarily inhabit woodland regions. Gardens rich in flower density are also a famous zone for the ruby-throated hummingbird. They hover in the air to feed on flowers, nectar, and sap. In the process, they pollinate many plants.


Ruby-throated hummingbirds are omnivores. They occasionally feed on insects and spiders. Most adult hummingbirds eat twice their bodyweight in food everyday. This provides the energy for the high metabolic activity due to the rapid beat of the wings and other acrobatic movements.

The ruby-throated hummingbird breeds in North America, the only species of hummingbirds to do so. Males engage in establishing a territory. They also court female birds by flying and diving acrobatics. Their red throat plumage also attracts the female species. Female hummingbirds take care of their little ones. In general, they lay one to three eggs. They incubate these eggs for nearly two weeks. Female hummingbirds may have numerous broods each year. Outside their breeding season, they are relatively solitary.

The ruby-throated hummingbird is migratory. They spend the winters in Mexico and Central America. The birds undertake marathon journeys across the Gulf of Mexico to get away from their North American breeding grounds. These birds tend to increase their weight in preparation for this long journey.

  • Add to Delicious!Save to delicious
  • Stumble itStumble it

Leave a Reply

CommentLuv badge