Hummingbirds are one of nature’s tiniest marvels and have the ability to dazzle and charm any birdwatcher’s eyes. However, the bee hummingbird is an absolute wonder to behold as it is considered a miniature even among hummingbirds, and has rightly earned the title of the world’s smallest bird.
Measuring an estimate of 5–6 centimeters, these tiny birds weigh less than an American dime—less than 2 grams (approx. 0.07 ounces).
To get a glimpse of these petite birds, one needs to look closely around their native country of Cuba, where they are found fluttering on flowers along the coast, in the interior rainforest, and in suburban gardens. Additionally, they are even found in mountain valleys and swamplands.
It’s a beautiful combination of hues in the male species of the bee hummingbird that makes it a tiny jewel. The striking features of the male bee hummingbirds include a green pileum and a bright-red throat. The iridescent gorget (colored feathers on the throat) with elongated lateral plumes and bluish upper parts make the bird’s appearance a sight to behold.
Meanwhile, the female bee hummingbird is dressed in bluish-green plumage with a white pale gray underside. The tip of its tail feathers has white spots.
As for its diet, the bee hummingbird is known to feed mainly on nectar by moving its tongue rapidly in and out of its mouth, but occasionally, it will feed on insects and spiders too. Additionally, the bee hummingbird is known to help the ecosystem by aiding in plant reproduction. During its feeding process, the bee hummingbird picks up pollen on its bill and head, and as it flies from flower to flower, it transfers the pollen. It is believed that in a day, the bee hummingbird can visit about 1,500 flowers.
The breeding season for the bee hummingbirds begins in the month of March. As the mating season rolls out, the male bee hummingbird shines in fiery pinkish-red from head to the throat, and blazing red feathers point like spikes down the sides of the breast. It is known that more than one male competes for a female. Additionally, to attract its female counterpart, the male bee hummingbird performs various aerial displays and sings its heart out.
The female bee hummingbird then lays two coffee-bean-sized eggs, which are only 2.5 centimeters (slightly less than 1 inch) in diameter, in her nest. However, the mother bee hummingbird prevents the father of the eggs from coming anywhere near the nest, as his shiny coat might be easily visible to predators. It takes about 21–22 days for the chick to hatch, and for an additional three weeks, the mother bee hummingbird feeds them on nectar, after which they are on their own.
