These are bee hummingbirds, which spend the summer months all across the U.S. West Coast, including Alaska. The bee hummingbird is found in Cuba, is somewhat smaller, and lacks rufous coloration.
This delicate bird is one of nature’s smallest and a true evolutionary marvel. It weighs less than 2g and is just 5–6 cm long, making it the size of a bee. Their beautiful iridescent plumage, like that of all hummingbirds, distinguishes them from bees. When they fly, it resembles a flying diamond. They are truly breathtaking, and if you get the chance to see them, don’t pass it up.
In March, when the estrus season commences, males have green bodies and vivid red necks. Females have a black neck and underbelly and are blue in color.
Males glow a vibrant pink/red color from head to the throat and all-around singing and aerial performances are all intended to attract their female counterpart.
They lay coffee-bean-sized eggs that are about an inch long! The bright plumage, however, will attract the notice of predators, therefore the mother bird will not allow the father to approach too close to the eggs.
Bee hummingbirds, like other hummingbirds, primarily feed on nectar, but will also eat insects and spiders on occasion. Hummingbirds are said to visit approximately 1,500 flowers per day, benefiting the ecosystem by promoting plant reproduction.
Nonetheless, they are satiated with subtropical conditions and do not leave their native Cuba.
