Hummingbirds are some of the smallest and most acrobatic birds found in nature. Their ability to hover mid-air and fly backwards sets them apart from other birds. With over 300 different species, hummingbirds display an incredible diversity in color, behavior, habitat and dominance.
What makes a hummingbird dominant?
Dominance in hummingbirds refers to their competitiveness and aggression in defending food sources and nesting territories. Several features determine dominance:
- Size – Larger hummingbird species tend to be more dominant. Their bigger size allows them to fend off smaller challengers.
- Bill shape – Short straight bills are better adapted for aggressive fights and jousting matches.
- Coloring – Bright iridescent throats and crowns help assert dominance through intimidating displays.
- Perching – Dominant birds perch in prominent undefended locations ideal for food and mate defense.
- Vocalizations – Dominant male hummingbirds make assertive vocalizations and dives to announce territory ownership.
- Metabolism – Higher metabolism from faster heart and wingbeat rates provides more energy for chasing and jousting.
By considering these traits, we can determine which hummingbird species tend to be the most dominant in different environments.
Most dominant hummingbird species
Anna’s Hummingbird
The Anna’s Hummingbird (Calypte anna) stands out as one of the most dominant hummingbird species. Native to western North America from Canada to Mexico, these hummingbirds are aggressive defenders of their territories.
Male Anna’s Hummingbirds have iridescent magenta throats and crowns that they display during competitive dives and chases. Their sharp straight bills are well-adapted for jousting matches with intruders. Anna’s Hummingbirds tend to be larger than other species at 10 cm long which adds to their dominant presence.
They vigorously defend meadows, backyard feeders and flowering plants within their territory against all intruders. An Anna’s Hummingbird will even stand its ground against larger birds like jays and crows that invade its space.
Rufous Hummingbird
The Rufous Hummingbird (Selasphorus rufus) is another highly dominant species defending feeding grounds across western North America. The males are exceptionally aggressive with their vivid orange throats and crowns on full display during competitive interactions.
They have a long straight bill adapted for jousting and chasing. The Rufous Hummingbird is fearless in confronting all trespassers, no matter their size, with fast direct dives and vocalizations.
Their extreme aggression continues during migration as they vigorously defend nectar sources along their 3000 mile migratory route. The Rufous Hummingbird does not back down from new competitors and threats across western America.
Blue-throated Mountain-gem
The Blue-throated Mountain-gem (Lampornis clemenciae) is Central America’s most dominant hummingbird species. The males are characterized by their bright blue gorgets and crowns that stand out vividly against the mountain backdrop.
They defend their mountain slope and valley territory aggressively against other aggressive tropical hummingbirds. With a specially adapted short straight bill and rapid metabolism, they readily engage in prolonged jousting matches.
The Blue-throated Mountain-gem perches openly on high exposed branches, vocalizing frequently to stand its ground. Given their large size and aggressive defense, they are considered the undisputed mountain kings of Central America.
Territorial behavior
Hummingbirds exhibit some of the most aggressive territorial behavior in the animal kingdom. Due to their high metabolisms and energy needs, they cannot risk losing access to energy rich nectar supplies. This has led to the evolution of aggressive defense mechanisms.
When an intruding hummingbird enters an already established territory, the ensuing aerial displays are fierce. The territorial male will perform intimidating display dives and vocalizations directly at the intruder. If this fails, jousting matches often follow.
Jousting occurs when the two males ascend rapidly while facing each other. At the peak, they clash bills and attempt to force the other downwards. The stronger and more aggressive hummingbird tries to overpower its opponent and chase it out of the territory.
Persistent intruders are subjected to dangerous aerial chase sequences involving rapid accelerations and ascents. Collisions sometimes occur causing injury and even death. Such intense battles highlight the life and death stakes involved in holding prime hummingbird territories.
Dominance at feeders
Backyard hummingbird feeders become hotbeds of competitive activity as multiple birds vie for access. The dominant species and individuals quickly stand out through their behavior.
They will perch in an open exposed area in the middle of the feeder. This allows them to visually dominate the space while monitoring for intruders. Approaching hummingbirds are met with displays and vocalizations to announce the incumbent’s ownership.
If another hummingbird persists in approaching the feeder, the dominant bird will turn sideways, flare out its feathers, spread its tail and dive directly at the intruder. They are prepared to aggressively chase the encroaching bird away from the area.
This behavior reliably indicates which hummingbird species and individuals maintain dominance at backyard feeders. The consistent aggressors hold control of the food source for extended periods.
Conclusion
Dominance patterns among hummingbirds depend on a variety of morphological and behavioral adaptations. Larger size, more vibrant colors, specialized bill shape, higher metabolism and increased aggression determine dominance across habitats and regions.
By considering these factors, Anna’s Hummingbirds, Rufous Hummingbirds and Blue-throated Mountain-gems stand out as supremely dominant hummingbird species. They fiercely defend their territories and food resources against intruders of all kinds through persistence and skillful aerial maneuvers.
Understanding hummingbird dominance provides insight into how ecological factors influence evolution. It also allows us to better support their energetic needs by protecting food sources critical to their survival.
