Hummingbirds are a fascinating group of birds found only in the Americas. With over 300 species, hummingbirds display an incredible diversity in size, color, behavior, habitat, and distribution. Their unique ability to hover in midair, thanks to specialized wings that can beat up to 80 times per second, allows them to feed on flower nectar in ways that no other birds can. But beyond their magical hovering flight, hummingbirds have captured the human imagination for centuries with their diminutive size, vibrant iridescent plumage, and energetic personalities.
Given their widespread appeal, it’s no surprise that hummingbirds have become highly sought after in the pet trade. However, removing these wild birds from nature and keeping them captive raises significant ethical concerns. In many places, capturing, possessing, or selling hummingbirds is illegal. Still, a black market for hummingbirds persists, fueled by consumer demand.
The Hummingbird Pet Trade
The practice of keeping hummingbirds as pets has existed for centuries, though on a relatively small scale. Some Native American tribes revered hummingbirds and incorporated them into cultural rituals. During the Victorian era, wealthy Europeans would sometimes display hummingbirds in ornamental cages as status symbols. But it wasn’t until the 20th century that the hummingbird pet trade really took off, enabled by advances in captive breeding and international transport.
Most hummingbird species are protected under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES), which means their commercial trade is banned or strictly regulated. However, illegal trafficking still occurs. Smugglers transport wild-caught hummingbirds across borders hidden in luggage, clothing, crates, and more. Common techniques used to capture the birds include shooting them with blow darts, gluing traps to branches, and setting up nylon nets. Such methods frequently lead to injury or death.
Once in the destination country, traffickers sell the hummingbirds on the black market. Germany, the Netherlands, Russia, Japan, China, and the United States have all been identified as major importers of illegal hummingbirds. Prices range wildly based on species rarity and consumer demand. For example, the endangered Green-tailed Hillstar has sold for over $1,000 per bird, while more common species go for $30 to $50. Traffickers cram hummingbirds into pill bottles, juice boxes, and other small containers for transport, often resulting in crushed tail feathers, broken wings, and other trauma.
Impact on Hummingbird Populations
Though comprehensive data is lacking, experts agree the illegal hummingbird trade has significantly harmed some wild populations. No species has faced greater losses than the Blue-throated Macaw. Found only in a small region of Bolivia, fewer than 500 Blue-throated Macaws remain in the wild today. Trapping for the pet trade is the primary threat to their survival. A single Blue-throated Macaw can sell for $10,000 or more, motivating traffickers to aggressively pursue the last remaining birds.
Other threatened species impacted by the hummingbird trade include:
- Peruvian Piedtail: Critically endangered, less than 150 left in Peru
- Esmeraldas Woodstar: Endangered, declining due to trapping in Ecuador
- Bahama Woodstar: Vulnerable, targeted by trappers across the Bahamas
- Allen’s Hummingbird: Near threatened, poaching has reduced some California populations
Beyond threatened species, the trade takes a toll on common hummingbirds as well. For example, an estimated 150,000 Rufous Hummingbirds are trapped in Mexico every year for export to the U.S. Although not endangered, experts warn that losses of that magnitude may have ecosystem impacts by reducing pollination services.
Keeping Hummingbirds as Pets
Removing hummingbirds from the wild is incredibly stressful for the birds. Their high metabolisms require constant energy intake from nectar and insects, which is difficult to adequately replicate in captivity. Pet hummingbirds are deprived of their natural foraging behaviors and free movement. Captive lifespans are greatly reduced compared to wild hummingbirds. Taming or training hummingbirds is generally not possible or healthy for their wellbeing.
Nonetheless, some people insist on keeping hummingbirds as pets. Avoid supporting illegal wildlife trafficking by only obtaining pet hummingbirds from licensed facilities that bred the birds in captivity, not from black market dealers. Provide the largest possible enclosure, multiple feeding stations, flowering plants, and specialty nutrition. Working with an avian veterinarian to maximize care is also recommended. Be aware that many jurisdictions still prohibit holding any native hummingbird species captive, even if captive-bred.
Ultimately, most experts advocate appreciation of hummingbirds in the wild rather than keeping them confined as pets. With a little garden and feeder maintenance, you can attract hummingbirds to freely visit your yard. You’ll get to enjoy their beauty and fascinating behaviors without restricting the birds’ freedom.
Fighting the Black Market Hummingbird Trade
Given the cruelty and conservation threats inherent in illegal hummingbird trafficking, what can concerned citizens do to help? Here are some suggestions:
- Avoid purchasing pet hummingbirds, as you may be supporting organized crime networks and permanently removing birds from diminishing wild populations.
- Do not keep or display any hummingbird feathers, parts, or products, as they are likely contraband. Even possession is illegal.
- If traveling internationally, carefully check regulations about live animal transport or souvenirs made from protected wildlife.
- Report suspected hummingbird trafficking to wildlife authorities. Provide as many details as possible.
- Spread awareness by sharing information on social media about the ecological impacts and animal welfare abuses behind the hummingbird black market.
- Support nonprofit groups working to protect hummingbirds and combat wildlife crime, such as the Hummingbird Conservancy and Wildlife Alliance.
Hummingbirds have inspired wonder throughout history. But unchecked consumer demand now threatens some species’ very existence. With care and conservation action, we can safeguard both wild hummingbird populations and the future of responsible aviculture. Managing the market responsibly is key to ensuring these smallest of birds continue gracing the Americas with their lively presence for generations to come.
Conclusion
The illegal pet trade has put substantial pressure on some wild hummingbird populations, especially rare and endangered species. However, sustainable captive breeding and outreach efforts to curb consumer demand for black market wildlife can help safeguard hummingbirds. With persistence from conservationists and cooperation from the public, hummingbirds can continue thriving as free-flying jewels of the Americas, not restricted possessions.
