An encounter with a hummingbird can be a surprising and delightful experience, as these tiny birds sometimes hover remarkably close to people. Their rapid wing beats create a distinctive hum, and their iridescent feathers shimmer with vibrant colors. This close approach often sparks wonder, leading many to question the reasons behind such an unexpected visit from nature’s aerial acrobats. The presence of a hummingbird nearby offers a unique glimpse into their world.
Understanding Hummingbird Habits
Hummingbirds have one of the highest metabolic rates among warm-blooded animals, requiring a constant search for food. They consume significant amounts of nectar, often eating one and a half to three times their body weight daily to sustain energy levels. This continuous need for sustenance drives much of their behavior.
These birds are also known for their territorial nature, especially males, who defend prime feeding areas. A male hummingbird might protect an area of about a quarter-acre containing nectar sources or feeders. This ensures access to resources for their high-energy lifestyle.
Hummingbirds display an innate investigative nature, constantly exploring their surroundings. This inquisitiveness extends to anything new or unusual within their territory, helping them locate new food sources and assess their environment.
Why They Approach People
A hummingbird’s approach to a person often stems from factors related to their survival and inherent curiosity. They may mistake brightly colored clothing or accessories for large flowers, particularly shades of red, orange, or pink. Their keen eyesight associates these hues with nectar-rich blooms, prompting investigation of a potential food source.
Curiosity plays a significant role in these close encounters. Hummingbirds are intelligent birds with good memories, and they explore their environment, including humans. They may hover near a person to assess whether the individual or their attire presents something of interest, as part of their continuous search for resources.
Sometimes, a hummingbird’s close fly-by can be a form of territorial defense. If a person is near a feeder or a patch of flowers the bird considers its own, it might approach to deter a perceived intruder. This is especially true during breeding season when males are fiercely protective of their feeding grounds. While it may seem aggressive, it is a defensive action to protect their food supply.
Their Sensory World
Hummingbirds rely heavily on their exceptional vision, which is far more expansive than human sight. Unlike humans, who have three types of color-sensitive cones, birds possess a fourth cone type sensitive to ultraviolet (UV) light. This allows them to perceive a spectrum of colors, including UV combinations, that are invisible to the human eye.
Their ability to see UV light helps them identify flowers that reflect these wavelengths, signaling nectar. This enhanced color perception makes bright objects, such as colorful clothing, highly attractive targets for investigation. Vision is their primary sense for locating food and navigating their environment.
While their vision is highly developed, a hummingbird’s sense of smell is generally less acute than their sight. Recent research suggests they can use smell to avoid dangerous insects at feeders, but they primarily use visual cues for foraging. Their hearing is also well-developed, aiding in predator detection and environmental awareness, but it is not as crucial for finding food as their vision.
Interacting with Hummingbirds
When a hummingbird flies close, remaining still is the best response. Sudden movements or loud noises can startle these small birds, causing them to flee. Allowing the bird to investigate without interference encourages a natural interaction.
It is important to avoid attempting to touch or capture a hummingbird. These are wild animals, and handling them can cause stress or injury. Allowing the bird to move on naturally ensures its well-being and maintains a respectful distance.
To encourage hummingbirds in a safe way, consider creating a hummingbird-friendly environment. Planting native flowers with red or orange tubular blooms, such as honeysuckle or bee balm, provides natural nectar sources. Establishing feeders with a simple sugar-water solution (one part white sugar to four parts water) can also attract them. Providing water sources like misters or shallow basins, and maintaining shrubs for shelter, helps create a welcoming habitat.