Hummingbirds are some of the smallest and most captivating birds in the world. Their tiny size and incredible flying abilities make them a joy to watch. However, these tiny birds also have a reputation for being quite feisty and aggressive at times, especially when defending their territory or food sources.
So can hummingbirds actually be aggressive towards humans? The short answer is yes, hummingbirds can and do exhibit aggressive behavior towards people under certain circumstances. However, it’s important to understand the context behind their aggression and how to avoid provoking it.
Why Do Hummingbirds Become Aggressive?
Hummingbirds are highly territorial creatures. They are very protective of their nests and feeding areas. There are a few key reasons why hummingbirds might feel provoked to act aggressively toward humans:
Defending Nesting Areas
During mating and nesting season, male hummingbirds can become highly protective of their nesting sites. They will perceive any encroachment as a threat. Males will aggressively chase or attack any animal or human that gets too close to the nest. This behavior is driven by hormones and their strong natural instinct to protect their territory and mate.
Guarding Feeders
Hummingbirds rely heavily on nectar feeders as an energy source. If a feeder is placed in or near their territory, they will aggressively defend it from other hummingbirds or animals. They will interpret any approach by humans as an attempt to steal their food source and react defensively.
Mistaken Identity
The color red provokes aggression in hummingbirds. They instinctively attack anything red because it signals an invading hummingbird. If a human wears brightly colored red clothing near a hummingbird’s territory, the rapid movement and red color can trigger an aggressive reaction. The hummingbird mistakenly identifies the person as a competitor.
Types of Aggressive Hummingbird Behavior
When feeling threatened, hummingbirds will display a few common aggressive behaviors:
Chasing
One of the most common behaviors is to chase interlopers out of their territory. Hummingbirds will rapidly chase humans, animals, or other birds that get too close. During these chases, they may make audible vocalizations and repeated dive bombing runs at the intruder.
Pecking and Clawing
If chasing does not work, hummingbirds will sometimes resort to pecking or clawing at the face, eyes, and other body parts. They can use their sharp beaks and claws quite effectively in attacking vulnerable areas. This behavior is often seen when defending nests and babies.
Body Slamming
Aggressive hummingbirds may dive bomb straight into an intruder’s body at full speed. The impact of these body slams can sometimes be felt. It is often more startling than painful. They typically aim for the head and do not actually make contact.
Loud Vocalizations
When being aggressive, hummingbirds will make loud, buzzing vocalizations. These sharp squeaking or clicking noises serve as warning sounds during an attack. It helps scare predators away from their territory and food sources.
Aggressive Hummingbird Species
While any hummingbird may show aggression given the right circumstances, some species have a greater tendency toward aggressive displays:
Anna’s Hummingbird
| Species | Aggression Level |
|---|---|
| Anna’s Hummingbird | High |
The Anna’s hummingbird is one of the most aggressive species, particularly the males. They are very territorial and will defend their mating, nesting, and feeding grounds. Anna’s males will chase away Hawks, Crows, and Ravens from their territory.
Rufous Hummingbird
| Species | Aggression Level |
|---|---|
| Rufous Hummingbird | High |
The Rufous hummingbird is known for its feisty personality. The males are highly protective of their territory and food sources. They will aggressively chase away other birds and animals that encroach on their space.
Calliope Hummingbird
| Species | Aggression Level |
|---|---|
| Calliope Hummingbird | Moderate |
While less aggressive than other species, male Calliope hummingbirds can still be quite territorial. They become more aggressive in defending their territory during the breeding season.
Ruby-throated Hummingbird
| Species | Aggression Level |
|---|---|
| Ruby-throated Hummingbird | Low |
The Ruby-throated hummingbird tends to be one of the least aggressive species. Males may occasionally chase each other but rarely attack other birds, animals, or humans unless defending an active nest.
When Do Hummingbirds Attack?
Hummingbird aggression mostly occurs during a few specific scenarios:
Breeding and Nesting Season
Male hummingbirds are hardwired to defend their territory and mates during breeding season. This is when aggressive displays are most likely to be provoked if humans encroach on their space. This behavior starts when males return from migration in spring through the summer nesting season.
At Feeders
Hummingbirds can aggressively defend feeders, especially in times of scarcity. If a feeder is placed near an existing nest or territory, they may attack any approach in order to guard their primary food source. This behavior is more common during migration seasons when food is limited.
Chance Encounters
On rare occasions, hummingbirds may attack humans out of perceived self-defense during chance encounters in nature near flowers, trees, or streams. These random attacks are not typical behavior but can happen if they feel startled or threatened.
How to Avoid Aggression
While hummingbird attacks are mostly harmless, they can still be an unpleasant experience. Here are some tips to avoid provoking aggression:
Avoid Nesting Areas
Give any established nests a wide berth, especially during breeding season. Stay at least 5-10 feet away from active nests to prevent males from perceiving a threat.
Don’t Wear Red
Red clothing tricks the hummingbird into thinking another bird has invaded. Stick to neutral colors like white, tan, or green when around nests or feeders.
Move Feeders Out of Territories
If a feeder is placed too close to a mating/nesting area, relocate it at least a quarter mile away to avoid conflict over the food source.
Use Caution Near Flowers/Trees
Hummingbirds can be feeding on or defending flowers, sap wells, and trees. Be alert when approaching these areas and leave if you notice aggressive behavior.
Act Calmly
If you encounter an aggressive hummingbird, remain calm. Do not swing or swat at it, which can provoke it to attack further. Simply move away slowly and let it retreat.
Dealing With Aggressive Hummingbirds
If you are repeatedly attacked by a hummingbird, here are some effective strategies:
Use a Water Spray
A gentle spray bottle of water can be an effective deterrent. The sprinkle of water startles them without harming them. They will learn to associate aggression with the unpleasant spray.
Install a Protector
Plastic bottle or mesh protectors can be placed around feeders to keep hummingbirds at a safer distance during feedings. This allows them to access the food but reduces defensive attacks.
Relocate Feeders
Moving feeders well outside the hummingbird’s territory and placing them lower to the ground can help reduce attacks. Make the feeders less desirable targets.
Supplement Feeders
Try putting out additional feeders around your property so there are plenty of alternate food sources. Well-fed hummingbirds may be less territorial and aggressive at their main feeder.
Remove Feeders Entirely
As a last resort, you can temporarily remove feeders leading up to and during breeding season when aggression peaks. Their food source will be spread out naturally without a central feeder to trigger fights.
Conclusion
While startling when they happen, aggressive hummingbird attacks are rarely cause for major concern. These tiny birds are just following their natural instincts to defend their territories. By understanding their motivation and utilizing proper precautions, conflicts can easily be avoided in most cases. A little patience and care allows us to continue enjoying these magical creatures up close. With the right approach, hummingbird feeders can provide hours of relaxing entertainment without negative encounters.
