Hummingbird Silhouette
by Flees Photos
Title
Hummingbird Silhouette
Artist
Flees Photos
Medium
Photograph - Home Decor And Giclee Wall Art By Chris Flees
Description
This image of a hummingbird was taken at Manaiou Springs, Colorado. Manitou Springs is a the foot of Pikes Peak. In town there are many Hummingbird feeders and you can see hummingbirds there most of the day. This image was taken as night drew near and this hummingbird was preparing to land and drink out of the feeder.
Hummingbirds are a diverse family of small, nectar-feeding birds belonging to the family Trochilidae. Here are some interesting facts about hummingbirds:
Small Size: Hummingbirds are among the smallest birds in the world. They range in size from about 7.5 to 13 centimeters (3 to 5 inches) in length and weigh only a few grams. Their small size allows them to hover in mid-air and access nectar from flowers.
Unique Flight Abilities: Hummingbirds have remarkable flight abilities. They can hover in mid-air by rapidly flapping their wings in a figure-eight pattern, allowing them to maintain a stationary position or fly backward. They are the only birds capable of sustained hovering. They can also fly at high speeds, reaching up to 30 to 60 miles per hour (48 to 97 kilometers per hour).
Feeding Habits: Hummingbirds have a high metabolism and rely heavily on nectar as their primary food source. They have long, slender bills and a specialized tongue that can extend deep into flowers to reach the nectar. They also consume small insects and spiders for additional protein, especially during the breeding season.
Brilliant Plumage: Hummingbirds are known for their vibrant and iridescent plumage. The colors are created by the unique structure of their feathers that reflects and refracts light. Depending on the angle and lighting conditions, their feathers can appear to change colors, creating dazzling displays.
Migration: Many hummingbird species are migratory, undertaking impressive long-distance journeys. Some species migrate annually between their breeding grounds in North America and their wintering grounds in Central or South America. These migrations can span thousands of miles and involve crossing bodies of water and traversing diverse habitats.
Breeding: Male hummingbirds often perform elaborate courtship displays to attract females. These displays involve aerial acrobatics, rapid wing flapping, and vocalizations. After mating, the female constructs a small cup-shaped nest made of plant materials, lichens, and spider silk. She lays one or two tiny eggs, and both parents take turns incubating the eggs and caring for the chicks.
Conservation: Hummingbirds face various conservation challenges, including habitat loss, climate change, pesticide use, and competition with introduced species. Some species are considered threatened or endangered due to these factors. Conservation efforts focus on protecting their habitats, planting native flowers to provide food sources, and raising awareness about their importance and vulnerability.
Hummingbirds are remarkable creatures with their small size, rapid flight, and stunning beauty. They play an important role in pollination and bring joy to birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts worldwide.
Uploaded
October 22nd, 2014
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