Hummingbirds are one of the most unique and spectacular birds found in nature. Their tiny size, iridescent feathers, and ability to hover and fly backwards sets them apart from all other bird species. When trying to identify an unknown bird that resembles a hummingbird, there are a few key features to look for.
Size and Shape
Hummingbirds are the smallest birds in the world, with most species measuring only 3-5 inches in length. Their bodies are compact, with short legs and tails. The bill is long and slender, perfectly adapted for reaching into flowers. The overall silhouette of a hummingbird in flight is petite and compact.
If you see a small bird and the body shape resembles a slender cigar with long wings that flap rapidly, it’s likely a hummingbird. Compare it to the size of a butterfly to get a sense of scale.
Flight Patterns
Hummingbirds have the unique ability to hover in midair by rapidly flapping their wings 12-80 times per second. They can also fly backwards, upside down, and in intricate patterns. The flight of a hummingbird is distinguished by its speed, agility, and aerial acrobatics.
Pay attention to birds that are able to abruptly change direction. If you see one that flies more like an insect than a bird, darting quickly from flower to flower, it’s likely a hummingbird.
Iridescent Plumage
In bright sunlight, hummingbird feathers shimmer with iridescent brilliance. Depending on the viewing angle, the colors may flash from red to orange, green to blue. Male hummingbirds are usually more vibrantly colored than females.
Look for a bright patch of color on the throat or crown that seems to radiate and change shades. The vibrant, multi-colored plumage is a hallmark of hummingbirds.
Long Slender Bill
A hummingbird’s bill is perfectly adapted for accessing nectar from flowers. The bill is usually very long relative to the size of its head. In fact, a hummingbird’s bill may account for up to 1/3 of its entire body length.
Examine the bird’s bill proportions. If the bill seems exceptionally long and pointed given the bird’s small head and body size, it’s likely a hummingbird’s bill.
Feeding Behavior
Hummingbirds use their slender bills to drink nectar from tubular flowers. Watch for a small bird that feeds while hovering in midair, remaining suspended for long periods with rapid wing beats as it inserts its bill into flowers.
This specialized feeding behavior is unique to hummingbirds, allowing them to lick up nectar while beating their wings up to 80 times per second.
Small Feet
A hummingbird’s feet are very small relative to its body size. The feet are only used for perching, not walking or hopping. When perched, the hummingbird’s feet will be barely visible and do not reach far below its body.
Check for diminutive feet and legs that do little more than lightly grip onto branches. If you can barely see the bird’s feet beneath its body, it indicates a hummingbird.
High-Pitched Squeaks
Hummingbirds may vocalize with high-pitched squeaks and chips, used in courtship or aggression displays. Their vocalizations are very quiet and do not carry far, often sounding more insect-like than bird-like.
Listen for tinny, mouse-like squeaking coming from a small bird. It may indicate a hummingbird is nearby even if you can’t yet see it.
Habitat
Hummingbirds are found exclusively in the Americas. They occur in a variety of habitats including gardens, meadows, woodland edges, and rainforests. Hummingbirds prefer locations with an abundance of nectar-producing flowers.
If you see a bird using the habitat like a hummingbird, moving quickly between flowers and feeding on nectar across forests, gardens, or parks, it’s likely a hummingbird species even if views are brief.
Behavior
Hummingbirds are very aggressive and territorial, especially when defending a food source. They may aggressively chase off other hummingbirds or dive bomb perceived threats. Watch for small birds that display outsized aggression given their tiny stature.
The feisty behavior is a sign that the small bird is likely a hummingbird protecting its territory.
Nesting
Hummingbird nests are very small, only 2-3 inches across. They are expertly camouflaged on branches, often blending into lichens or moss. Hummingbirds may re-use a nest or build a new one each season.
Look for a tiny, cup-shaped nest balanced on a tree limb or eave. If the nest appears too small to accommodate any bird other than a hummingbird, it’s evidence they may be present.
Most Similar Birds
While other birds may initially resemble hummingbirds, there are a few key differences that distinguish them upon closer inspection:
- Swifts – Similar darting flight but larger in size, with a stouter cigar-shaped body and shorter wings.
- Sugarbirds – Long curved bill but much larger body size, longer legs and tail.
- Sunbirds – Resemble hummingbirds but have thicker bills adapted for eating insects and fruit.
- Flowerpiercers – Specialized for piercing flowers to rob nectar but have parrot-like bills and chunkier bodies.
Conclusion
Hummingbirds are in a class of their own when it comes to their diminutive size, specialized feeding behaviors, hovering flight capabilities, and dazzling iridescent plumage. By looking closely at a bird’s size, bill shape, flying skills, feather colors, and aggressiveness around food sources, you can distinguish a hummingbird from other superficially similar species. Hummingbirds are a joy to observe and their tiny size and energetic lifestyle makes them one of the most unique avian families in the world.