Hummingbirds are captivating creatures, known for their shimmering feathers and agile flight. While they may appear curious or bold when encountering humans, their behavior is rooted in instinct rather than a desire for companionship. These tiny birds are driven by survival strategies, which dictate their responses to their environment and any potential food sources or perceived threats.
Understanding Their Natural Behaviors
Hummingbirds possess a high metabolism, requiring constant energy. Their hearts can beat up to 1260 times per minute, and their wings can flap at rates up to 80 beats per second during flight. This demand means they must feed frequently, every 10-15 minutes. Their diet primarily consists of nectar for sugars, but they also consume small insects and spiders for protein, amino acids, and minerals. Hummingbirds can eat between several hundred and two thousand insects daily.
Their survival also depends on defending food sources, leading to territorial behavior. Males fiercely protect patches of nectar-rich flowers or artificial feeders. They chase away rivals, including other hummingbirds, bees, butterflies, and even sphinx moths. This defense ensures exclusive access to the food needed to sustain their metabolism.
Why They Interact with Humans
The perception of hummingbirds being “friendly” often stems from their close approaches to humans. A primary reason for this behavior is their innate curiosity and sharp eyesight. They are attracted to bright colors, especially red, orange, or pink, which they associate with nectar-rich flowers. A human wearing such colors might inadvertently be investigated as a potential food source.
Hummingbirds may also approach humans if they associate them with food, especially if a feeder is regularly maintained. Their remarkable memory allows them to remember locations of food sources and the routines of those who provide them. This can lead to bolder behavior as they become accustomed to human presence and view it as part of their feeding environment. In some instances, a hummingbird might hover near a human due to territorial defense, perceiving the person as a potential threat to a nearby feeder or flower patch. They may engage in “dive-bombing” displays to deter what they see as an intruder.
Creating a Welcoming Environment
Creating a suitable habitat can encourage hummingbird visits. Planting nectar-rich flowers is an effective way to attract them. They are particularly drawn to tubular-shaped flowers, such as salvia, bee balm, honeysuckle, columbine, and trumpet vine. A diverse selection of native plants that bloom throughout the growing season ensures a continuous food supply.
Hummingbird feeders can supplement natural nectar sources. The recommended solution is one part refined white sugar to four parts water, without red dye, which is unnecessary and potentially harmful. Feeder hygiene is crucial; clean feeders regularly to prevent mold and bacterial growth, ideally every 2-3 days in warm weather or daily in hot conditions. Placing feeders in the shade can help slow spoilage.
To ensure a safe environment, minimize or eliminate pesticide use, as hummingbirds consume insects. Position feeders at least five feet off the ground and away from dense shrubbery to deter predators like cats. Observing these agile birds from a distance allows for appreciation without causing disturbance.