Hummingbirds are territorial creatures that will chase other hummingbirds away from food sources in order to protect their territory. There are a few key reasons why a hummingbird might chase away others:
To Protect Nectar Sources
Hummingbirds rely on nectar as their main food source. They have very high metabolisms and must consume a lot of nectar each day to survive. When a hummingbird finds a good nectar source like a flower or feeder, it will often “stake a claim” and chase away other hummers to prevent competition. This ensures the bird has enough food resources for itself. The more abundant the nectar source, the more aggressively a bird will defend it.
Males Protecting Territories
Male hummingbirds are especially territorial. In addition to food resources, they will protect areas where they hope to mate with females. A male will pick a territory with good nectar supplies and chase off intruders to impress females and ensure he has plenty of food to survive. Displays of aggression from a dominant male hummer help deter rivals and attract mates at the same time.
Females Protecting Nests
Female hummingbirds will also protect their nesting areas fiercely. A female needs access to reliable nectar supplies close to her nest so she can easily feed herself and her chicks. She will chase away other birds that get too close while incubating eggs or raising young. This protects her offspring and ensures she has enough food nearby to nourish them.
Peak Aggression in the Breeding Season
Hummingbirds tend to be most territorial from late spring through summer during prime breeding season. This is when competition is highest for food, mates, and nesting areas. The aggression typically declines in fall and winter when birds have fewer territorial disputes.
| Season | Territorial Behavior |
|---|---|
| Spring | Increasing aggression |
| Summer | Peak aggression while breeding |
| Fall | Declining aggression |
| Winter | Little to no aggression |
As shown in the table, territorial behavior ramps up in spring, peaks in summer, and declines through fall and winter as breeding tapers off.
Dominant Birds are More Aggressive
In any hummingbird population, there is a hierarchy based on dominance. The most dominant, fittest males control the best territory. They will chase off other males relentlessly to maintain their status. Even dominant females may show aggression towards less dominant birds. The pecking order helps limit serious fights and ensures each bird knows its place.
Physical Attributes of Dominant Birds
Certain physical traits tend to favor dominance in hummingbirds:
- Larger size – Bulkier birds can intimidate smaller ones
- Bright, iridescent plumage – Indicates fitness and good health
- Skillful flying ability – Better flight control aids in chasing
- Loud chirping – Communicates aggression effectively
A male hummingbird with many of these attributes is likely to be at the top of the hierarchy and show the most aggression in chasing intruders away.
Younger Birds are More Submissive
Younger hummingbirds that have just left the nest are generally more timid and submissive. They will flee quickly and avoid defended territories occupied by adults. With less fighting experience and undeveloped flying skills, juvenile birds know they are unlikely to win in conflicts over food or territory. Only the alpha adult males will typically be bold enough to chase intruders over long distances.
How Young Birds Avoid Conflict
To stay safe and avoid aggression from adults, fledgling hummingbirds exhibit submissive behaviors:
- Fleeing rapidly when chased by adults
- Making high-pitched squeaking sounds signaling submission
- Visiting nectar sources at different times than mature birds
- Seeking food in marginal areas away from prime territories
These tactics help young birds get the food they need while minimizing dangerous interactions with adults. Over time, the juveniles gain skills and dominance to obtain better territories.
Other Reasons for Aggression
In addition to food and breeding disputes, hummingbirds may show aggression in these situations:
Nest Defense
Hummingbird parents, especially females, will chase away any birds or animals that approach their nest while eggs and chicks are vulnerable. Even harmless flying insects may be chased if they get too close.
Predator Mobbing
Hummingbirds will band together and chase much larger predators like hawks or crows that enter their territory. By dive-bombing the intruder, they can drive it away through sheer persistence.
Irruptions
When natural events like fires or frost damage flowers, hummingbird populations may irrupt outside their normal range in search of food. This leads to more birds competing in new areas and increased aggression.
Conclusion
Territorial behavior and chasing other birds away allows hummingbirds to protect critical food supplies and breeding resources. Males are generally more aggressive due to their role in acquiring territories for breeding. Dominant birds of any sex will be more bold in chasing intruders. While aggression peaks in the summer breeding season, hummingbirds may show territorial behavior whenever threats encroach on their nesting or feeding areas. Understanding the reasons behind hummingbird aggression provides a window into their fierce survival instincts despite their small size.
