A Closer Look at Hummingbird Flight

Hummingbirds are a graceful and fascinating species, their tiny wings a blur of frantic motion keeping their small bodies aloft as they quickly flit about. The ruby-throated hummingbird, characterized by the vibrant red neck feathers seen in males, is the most common species of hummingbird in eastern North America.

This particular breed migrates to South America in the fall, and will feed frequently as it makes the long journey. Feeding time is when one of the most interesting features of hummingbird flight occurs. Captured at both full speed and in slow motion, this video displays how the hummingbird uses its tail somewhat like a rudder and a stabilizer to guide its path as it feeds.

Featured Image from James Wainscoat/Unsplash