Hummingbird

The Ruby-Throated Hummingbird

The Ruby-throated Hummingbird, one of the smallest hummingbird species, can only grow to a length of 3 to 3.5 inches and weight of about 3 grams. Due to its small size, the bird is sometimes mistaken for a large insect.

A Ruby-throated Hummingbird has only about 940 feathers in average, which are all replaced every year. For this, Ruby-throated Hummingbirds hold the record for having the least number of feathers of any bird. Ruby-throated Hummingbird’s very short legs prevent it from other means of moving, such as walking or hopping. Indeed, it can only shuffle along a perch. It scratches its head and neck by raising its food up and over its wing.

Learn more on hummingbirdsplus.org. Image from encyclopedia Britanica