Hummingbirds primarily feed on nectar from flowers, using their long, specialized bills and extendable, tube-like tongues to extract the sugary liquid.
In addition to nectar, hummingbirds also consume small insects and spiders for protein, essential nutrients, and fats, especially during breeding seasons.
Some hummingbird species supplement their diet with fruit juices, particularly those with higher sugar content, providing additional energy sources.
Hummingbirds drink water from natural sources such as dew, raindrops, and puddles, as well as man-made sources like bird baths and dripping faucets.
Hummingbirds exhibit unique feeding behaviors, including hovering in mid-air while sipping nectar, rapid wing beats, and precise maneuvering to access flowers.
Different hummingbird species have specific flower preferences based on nectar availability, flower shape, color, and fragrance.
Hummingbird diets may vary seasonally, with shifts in flower blooming patterns, insect abundance, and environmental conditions influencing their food choices.