Ruby-throated hummingbirds are expert fliers. They can fly backward and forward, and also hover, or stay in one place in the air.
Their flying helps the birds get to flowers so they can drink nectar. Nectar is a sugary, sweet liquid inside of flowers.
One hummingbird might visit up to 2,000 flower each day to drink nectar!
When a hummingbird gets to a flower – which is often red or orange – the bird sticks its long beak inside. Then it uses its long tongue to reach the nectar.
The ruby-throated hummingbird lives in more places than any other kind of hummingbird. It is the only type of hummingbird found in Manitoba.
The ruby-throated hummingbird can flap its wings 53 TIMES in one second!
Source: National Geographic Kids Big Book of Birds, by Catherine D. Hughes
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