![]() ![]() At about 3 inches long, the rufous hummingbird travels about 3,900 miles one way, all the way from Alaska.īut not all hummingbirds migrate. This means that they have the longest migratory pattern of any bird in the world when compared to their body size. This species makes their winter homes along the Gulf of Mexico. The furthest north-breeding hummingbird is the rufous hummingbird. Other triggers likely relate to the abundance (or lack) of flowers, and evolved instincts. Some scientists theorize that it has to do with dwindling daylight others. There are conflicting opinions on what triggers migration movements, so further study is important. Secondly, once the temperatures begin to drop in the deciduous forests after the birds have bred and fledged their young, these migrant species return to the tropics of Mexico, the Caribbean, and areas of Central America for wintering. Depending on the species, these breeding grounds range from Alaska to Argentina – so it’s a really broad range. Firstly, there is the spring migration period in which birds fly (north or south) to their breeding grounds, beginning as early as February. ArtTower/Pixabay Migrationsīirders and scientists observe two migration periods in hummingbirds. It is a striking example of how we are just beginning to understand the intricate links of biologically diverse ecosystems. Scientists are studying the ways in which hummingbirds and particular plants have evolved and adapted together over the course of millions of years. Hummingbirds pollinate over 7,000 species of plants in their broad regions. The speed at which these wings move creates a powerful humming sound if you slow down long enough to really listen. The wings of an average-sized hummingbird species can beat up to 80 times per minute. ![]() Various species have been studied extensively in regard to their flight patterns. Hummingbird food sources are flower nectar, flying insects, and spiders. Their body weight varies and can be anywhere from 2.0g to 24g. Most hummingbirds are less than 5 inches in length. The botanical name for this family of hummers is Trochilidae – of which there are around 360 species. Depending on the species, their range stretches from the tip of Tierra del Fuego all the way to Alaska. They are endemic to the western hemisphere. Let’s begin with the basics: Hummingbird species are native to South America, Central America, and North America. ![]()
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