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Some species of hummingbirds are critically endangered. These birds are incredibly tiny and delicate, measuring only a few centimeters in length, with eggs smaller than a jellybean.
Here are some tips for spotting them:
“Hummingbird eggs are as small as jellybeans! Make sure to carefully check for nests before pruning trees and shrubs.”
Currently, 34 species of hummingbirds (10%) are classified as “critically endangered,” meaning they have a 50/50 chance of extinction within the next decade.
Therefore, being vigilant for their tiny nests while you prune is crucial for their survival.
Hummingbird nests are usually built on a downward-sloping branch and are often found on branches hanging over flowing water or open spaces, according to The Hummingbird Project. They construct their nests using spider silk, lichens, and plant material, making them extremely delicate. The lichens also provide effective camouflage for their nests.
Hummingbirds flap their wings between 50 and 80 times per second on average, making them virtually blur to the human eye. If you’ve ever seen a hummingbird’s wings beating, it’s usually because the video has been slowed down or the bird is landing.
Their metabolism is as fast as their wing beats, and their weight can vary dramatically throughout the day as they consume and burn energy. To fuel their high metabolism, they consume between half and eight times their body weight in sugar daily. The average hummingbird feeds 5 to 8 times per hour, dedicating a significant portion of its waking hours to feeding!
Their hearts can beat more than 1,200 times per minute! In comparison, the average human heart beats around 80 times per minute. This means that for every beat of a human heart, a hummingbird’s heart beats 20 times—truly astounding!
