The Humdinging Hummingbird

Spring is in full swing, ushering the return of blissful temperatures, picturesque wildflowers, and the ever-amusing hummingbird. World renowned, the hummingbird hold a Guinness World Record for its compact stature, but don’t let their size fool you! These feathered fairies are by no means small in spirit. In this edition of The StickerTalk, grab your binoculars and join us on a bird-watching binge to uncover the secrets of the hummingbird.

Experts estimate that over 300 different species of hummingbirds adorn the world’s gardens, forests, and tropics. America’s most prevalent breed of hummingbird is the ruby-throated hummingbird. Cuba’s bee hummingbird is lauded as the smallest species of hummingbird, measuring on average about two inches in length and weighing just under two grams.

The hummingbird’s unique anatomical features allow it to possess superhero-like qualities. While most other birds can only fly forward or higher, the hummingbird can fly in all directions. Upwards, downwards, backwards, and forwards, this flying jewel is the only vertebrate capable of hovering. A hummingbird can effortlessly exceed speeds of 30 mph in flight and boasts better senses of sight and hearing than people.

Despite the hummingbird’s relatively minuscule brain, the bird showcases an astounding intelligence. The master of a mighty memory, the hummingbird can keep mental record of which flowers it has feasted on and how long it takes for each flower to replenish its nectar.

Sources:

• https://www.treehugger.com/animals/16-dazzling-facts-about-hummingbirds.html
• http://www.birdwatching-bliss.com/hummingbirds.html
• http://www.softschools.com/facts/animals/hummingbird_facts/81/
• http://www.guinnessworldrecords.com/world-records/smallest-bird