Humming Birds General Markings and Characteristics

Author: Roger Johnson
Humming Birds like to flit around where they can get nectar from feeders or plants with their long straight bills.  Folks that have nector rich brightly colored flowers or colorful feeders in their yards can see Humming Birds most every day. They make a sight as they seem to float in the air while their wings move so fast you can hardly see them. They are so small that most of them only weight an ounce or two. Much smaller than most backyard birds. But they are very fun to watch as they drink and collect nectar. With their inquisitive ways they explore woodlands and yards. They do not glide around in the air. They like to move in short hops or spurts that are so fast you have to really watch to see them at work. They usually are a somewhat drab light brown in color with lighter underbellies.  But their antics make up for the loss of bright colors.

With your binoculars take some time and look for general markings and characteristics, things that you notice right off. Do not spend a lot of time trying to memorize different aspects of the Humming Birds. Just look for general information and then you will be able to quickly recognize what group these birds belong to by noticing size, general shape, colors and their behavior.

I suggest that you keep a note book of these characteristics. You can add to it from time to time. This will help you understand and learn. But be patient and note things only one at a time. Otherwise you may get tired and discouraged because you can't remember everything at once. It will all come in time as you watch these birds. Also take a look at the field marks such as a wingbar and eyering markings to tie some IDs down.

Please remember also to note what time of year you see them as well as other kinds of birds you see in your neighborhood.  Then you will be able to keep track of them better next year when the return.

A good field book on birds will help, but do not try to memorize everything in it all at once. Just learn about your specific bird of interest.

Humming Bird
Size & Shape
A small size, with a long straight bill, flat head and large eyes, short pointy tail
Color Pattern
Subdued light brown above, with gray-white underbelly, distinct necklace line and gray-brown wings
Behavior
Inquisitively explores woodlands and yards, moves in short hops or spurts
Habitat
Forest edge, woodlands, urban and suburban parks and yards

Birding is a great sport, especially watching Humming Birds. Their antics and activities will keep you busy for hours. With some enjoyable work in preparation by learning a few basics about them and with a good pair of bird watching binoculars you can have many hours of pleasure with your family or by yourself.

Roger Johnson