Hummingbird Facts for Kids

Hummingbirds are tiny birds that are known for their amazing flying abilities. They are the only birds that can fly backwards and hover in mid-air. They can also fly at speeds up to 60 miles per hour!

Hummingbirds are found in the Americas, from Alaska to the tip of South America. They are most common in tropical and subtropical regions.

What do hummingbirds eat?

Hummingbirds eat nectar, which is a sweet liquid found in flowers. They use their long, thin beaks to reach deep into the flowers and drink the nectar. They also eat small insects, which they catch in the air.

How do hummingbirds fly backwards?

Hummingbirds can fly backwards because of their unique wing structure. Their wings are able to rotate at the shoulder, which allows them to flap their wings in a figure-eight pattern. This allows them to change direction quickly and easily.

How do hummingbirds build their nests?

Hummingbirds build their nests out of soft materials like spider silk, plant fibers, and moss. They usually build their nests in trees, bushes, or on buildings.

How many eggs do hummingbirds lay?

Hummingbirds lay 1-3 tiny eggs at a time. They incubate their eggs for about 10-19 days.

How long do hummingbirds live?

Hummingbirds can live for 3-5 years in the wild.

Fun Facts about Hummingbirds

• The smallest hummingbird is the bee hummingbird, which is only about 2 inches long.
• The largest hummingbird is the giant hummingbird, which is about 8 inches long.
• Hummingbirds can beat their wings up to 80 times per second!
• Hummingbirds have to eat their weight in nectar every day.
• Hummingbirds are very territorial and will defend their feeding areas from other hummingbirds.

How to attract hummingbirds to your yard

If you want to attract hummingbirds to your yard, you can plant flowers that produce nectar, such as:

• Bee balm
• Honeysuckle
• Trumpet vine
• Cardinal flower
• Salvia

You can also put out a hummingbird feeder. Make sure to use a sugar solution that is 1 part sugar to 4 parts water. You should also change the sugar solution every few days to prevent bacteria from growing.

Enjoy watching these amazing little birds!