Hummingbirds are not commonly kept in zoos for a few key reasons. In the opening paragraphs, I’ll quickly go over why zoos typically don’t keep hummingbirds and the challenges of doing so.
Why zoos don’t usually keep hummingbirds
There are three main reasons why most zoos do not keep hummingbirds:
- Hummingbirds have very specialized feeding requirements – they live off of nectar and small insects and need to feed frequently throughout the day. This can be challenging for zoos to replicate.
- Hummingbirds are solitary creatures and do not do well in captive groups or confined spaces. Their small size also makes them difficult to properly exhibit.
- Many hummingbird species are native to tropical locations. Zoos in temperate climates would have a hard time meeting their needs.
With their small size, high metabolism, solitary nature, and tropical origins, hummingbirds pose many challenges for successful captive management. Most zoos are not equipped to meet the specialized needs of hummingbirds.
Challenges of keeping hummingbirds in zoos
If a zoo did attempt to keep hummingbirds, some of the main challenges would include:
- Feeding – In the wild, hummingbirds feed on nectar and small insects. Their feeding schedule is erratic and they eat many small meals throughout the day. Replicating this diet in captivity can be tricky. Nectar supplements need to be made and changed frequently to provide nutrients. Mealworms, fruit flies, or other tiny insects must be supplied as well.
- Housing – Hummingbirds should not be kept in standard cages. They need enough space to fly and exercise. A large aviary or greenhouse that allows free flight is better. The enclosure needs plenty of flowering plants and perches. Hummingbirds are territorial and may fight if space is limited.
- Climate – Most hummingbirds live in tropical climates and require warm temperatures, high humidity, and sunlight. Zoos in cooler regions would need specialized heated habitats. Even brief temperature drops can be dangerous.
- Stress – Hummingbirds are high-struggle creatures and very sensitive to disturbance. Loud noise, lots of visitors, and confinement causes them stress. This weakens their immune system and shortens lifespans.
- Breeding – Hummingbirds only thrive when they can exhibit natural behaviors like building nests and rearing young. However, mating and breeding in captivity is difficult. This limits zoos from successfully exhibiting them long-term.
Due to these many hurdles, most zoos invest their resources in exhibiting species that are better suited for captivity. Species like large mammals, primates, reptiles, raptors and waterfowl are less specialized and easier to maintain.
Examples of zoos that keep hummingbirds
While uncommon, there are a handful of zoos that have been able to successfully keep and even breed hummingbirds. This is usually accomplished with specialized habitats.
Here are a few examples:
- Carolina Zoo (North Carolina) – This zoo has a tropical aviary called the “Hummingbird Landing” where guests can observe hundreds of hummingbirds flying freely. It is 80 feet long and 35 feet wide.
- Denver Zoo (Colorado) – Their “Bird World” habitat has a dedicated hummingbird aviary kept at 80°F. It houses green-breasted mango and other tropical species.
- Columbus Zoo (Ohio) – Their “Shores Playpark” contains a walk-through hummingbird habitat called “Hummingbird Allee.” Over 20 species are exhibited with hundreds of individuals.
- Fort Worth Zoo (Texas) – Their aviary contains green violet-ear hummingbirds from Mexico. It has artificial flowers, sprinklers, and heat lamps to meet their needs.
These zoos all provide large greenhouse-like spaces filled with flowering plants. They are heated and humidified to mimic tropical climates. This allows hummingbirds to fly freely and exhibit natural behaviors, despite being outside of their native ranges.
Key considerations for hummingbird care
For the few zoos that keep hummingbirds, meeting their specialized needs is critical. Here are some key considerations:
- Enclosure – A large aviary or greenhouse, ideally with outdoor access. Dimensions of at least 30 feet by 20 feet. UV-transparent roofing.
- Climate – Consistent warm temperatures around 80°F. Humidity around 60-70%. Sunlight and rain/misting. Excellent ventilation.
- Flight space – Unobstructed flying room inside the enclosure. Multiple perches and ledges. Natural branching for resting.
- Flowers – Abundant nectar-producing flowers. Native species preferred. Automatic misters to keep plants hydrated.
- Diet – Nectar supplement changed 2-3 times daily. Fruit flies or small crickets offered daily. Clean water.
- Seclusion – Visual barriers and hiding spots to reduce stress. Nesting materials. Fewer disturbed areas.
- Shelter – Protected sleeping areas. Heated roosting spots to conserve energy.
Meeting these standards of care helps reduce stress and promote natural behaviors. Close observation is needed to watch for signs of illness or injury, which can progress rapidly in hummingbirds. Keepers must be committed to providing specialized feeding and housing for the long-term.
Interesting facts about hummingbirds
Here are some fascinating facts about hummingbirds:
- There are over 300 species of hummingbirds worldwide, primarily in the Americas.
- Hummingbird hearts can beat up to 1,260 times per minute.
- They have the largest brain size relative to their body of all birds.
- Hummingbirds can fly forwards, backwards, up, down, and even upside down.
- Some species migrate huge distances each year, covering thousands of miles.
- Hummingbirds eat up to twice their body weight in nectar each day.
- Their feet are so weak they can barely walk, only perch.
- Iridescent throat feathers are used for mating displays in males.
- Hummingbird nests are tiny, often made of plant down and spider webs.
- Their long, specially-adapted tongues can flick 13 times per second.
The unique qualities of hummingbirds allow them to hover and thrive on specialized nectar diets. But those same adaptations make them challenging to maintain in captive zoo settings.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while some zoos have successfully exhibited hummingbirds, most do not keep them. Hummingbirds have extremely specialized care requirements including feeding, climate, housing, and behavior needs. Their small size, solitary nature, tropical origins, and sensitivity to stress pose many challenges in captive management. Only zoos with dedicated aviary habitats focused on hummingbirds are typically able to provide appropriate care. However, when their needs are met, hummingbirds can make fascinating and unforgettable exhibit species.
