Songbirds are a group of small to medium-sized passerine birds that are characterized by their ability to produce complex vocalizations, often sung in order to attract mates or defend territories. There are over 5000 different species of songbirds in the world, exhibiting a wide range of sizes from the tiny hummingbirds to larger thrushes and corvids.
What are some of the smallest species of songbirds?
Here are some of the smallest species of songbirds in the world:
- Bee hummingbird – 2.4 inches long, 0.06-0.08 oz weight
- Lucy’s warbler – 4.3 inches long, 0.3 oz weight
- Goldcrest – 4.3 inches long, 0.14-0.17 oz weight
- Verdin – 4.3 inches long, 0.3-0.4 oz weight
- Wren-tit – 4.5 inches long, 0.4 oz weight
The bee hummingbird, found in Cuba, Jamaica, and the Isle of Youth, is the smallest living bird species in the world. Females measure 2.4 inches long and weigh just 0.06-0.08 oz. They are tiny enough to perch on a human thumb.
Key identifying features of the bee hummingbird
Here are some key features that distinguish the bee hummingbird from other tiny hummingbird species:
- Extremely small size – 2.4 inches from bill tip to tail tip
- Shimmering green plumage on back and crown
- White underside and belly
- Long, slender decurved bill
- Male has reddish pink throat feathers (gorget)
- Female lacks gorget and is slightly larger than male
- Fast, buzzing wingbeats while feeding on nectar
Their small size, rapid wingbeats, and ability to hover sets them apart from other birds. The bee hummingbird is the only bird species found exclusively in Cuba.
Bee hummingbird feeding habits and diet
Despite its tiny size, the bee hummingbird has a fast metabolism and needs to consume significant amounts of sugars from flower nectar each day to maintain its energy. Some key facts about its feeding habits:
- Feeds on nectar from flowers using its long, specially adapted tongue
- Favorite flowers include hibiscus, spider lily, and coral vine
- Visits 5-6 flowers per minute on average while feeding
- Eats up to half its weight in nectar per day
- Also eats small insects such as gnats and fruit flies
- Has an estimated daily energy budget of 9.4-10.9 kJ per day
Their long, tubular tongue allows them to reach deep into flowers to access nectar that other shorter-billed birds cannot. They are important pollinators of native Cuban flowers.
Bee hummingbird nesting, breeding, and lifespan
Here are some key facts about the bee hummingbird’s reproduction and lifespan:
- Breeding season lasts from March through June
- Females build tiny cup-shaped nests out of plant down, spider webs, and lichen
- Lays 2 tiny white eggs per clutch
- Incubation period is 15-18 days
- Chicks fledge after 18-22 days
- Adult lifespan estimated up to 8 years in the wild
Building their tiny nest and successfully raising chicks requires immense energy investment for the tiny hummingbirds. They often raise 2-3 clutches per breeding season.
Bee hummingbird habitat and range
The bee hummingbird is found ONLY in Cuba and some surrounding islands. Some details on its restricted habitat and range:
- Endemic to the entire island of Cuba
- Also found on neighboring Cayman and Isle of Pines
- Inhabits forests, woodlands, parks, and gardens
- Nests in shrubs and small trees
- Maintains small breeding and feeding territories
- Does not migrate, lives on territory year-round
Their tiny size and high metabolism make them highly adapted to the tropical island habitats of Cuba where food sources are available year-round.
Bee hummingbird conservation status
Due to its restricted island distribution and threats to its habitat, the bee hummingbird has a conservation status of Near Threatened according to the IUCN Red List. Specific conservation notes:
- Global population estimated at 2000-1500 mature individuals
- Restricted to small habitat within Cuba
- Threatened by tourism, habitat loss, climate change
- Legally protected under Cuban law
- Listed on Appendix III of CITES
- Classified as Near Threatened on IUCN Red List
Maintaining protected reserves and habitat corridors in Cuba is crucial for ensuring the survival of the bee hummingbird into the future. Ecotourism may help provide incentives for Cubans to protect the bird.
Comparison to other tiny hummingbirds
The bee hummingbird is the smallest hummingbird species. Here is how it compares to some other tiny hummingbirds of the world:
| Species | Length | Weight | Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bee Hummingbird | 2.4 in | 0.06-0.08 oz | Cuba |
| Lucifer Hummingbird | 3.5 in | 0.1-0.2 oz | Mexico |
| Calliope Hummingbird | 3.1-3.5 in | 0.1-0.2 oz | Western North America |
As the table shows, no other hummingbird species comes close to matching the diminutive size of the bee hummingbird. It weighs less than a penny!
Frequently Asked Questions about the Bee Hummingbird
How fast does a bee hummingbird’s wings beat?
A bee hummingbird’s wings beat an astonishing 200 times per second. This allows them to hover and fly backwards or upside down unlike other birds.
What is the lifespan of a bee hummingbird?
In the wild, bee hummingbirds live an average of 3-5 years. The oldest known bee hummingbird was 8 years old.
Do bee hummingbirds migrate?
No, bee hummingbirds do not migrate and instead live year-round in their tiny Cuban territories. They do not travel long distances.
What time of day are they most active?
Bee hummingbirds are most active in the early morning and late afternoon as they seek out nectar from flowers. They rest more during the hottest part of the day.
How many eggs does a female bee hummingbird lay?
A female bee hummingbird lays 2 tiny white eggs per clutch, usually two clutches per breeding season. The eggs are about the size of a coffee bean.
Do bee hummingbirds live alone or in flocks?
Bee hummingbirds are solitary and territorial. Males and females each maintain small, separate breeding and feeding territories throughout the year.
Conclusion
The aptly named bee hummingbird is the world’s smallest bird and an amazing example of miniaturization in nature. Living year-round in Cuba, these tiny birds zoom around flowers with wings beating over 200 times per second. Their diminutive size makes them specially adapted to thrive on a tropical island home. This hummingbird’s small global population and restricted range put it at risk as its habitat is threatened by climate change and human activities. Continued conservation efforts are needed to protect the unique bee hummingbird for future generations.
