The bee hummingbird (Mellisuga helenae) is the smallest bird in the world.
Size and Characteristics:
- Size: The bee hummingbird is tiny, measuring only about 5.5 cm (2.2 inches) in length and weighing a mere 1.6 to 2 grams (0.05 to 0.07 ounces). This is smaller than a bumblebee!
- Appearance: They have iridescent green feathers, a long, slender bill, and a rapid wingbeat.
- Habitat: Bee hummingbirds are found only in Cuba.
Other Small Bird Species:
While the bee hummingbird takes the title of smallest, other birds are also incredibly small:
- Eurasian pygmy owl: This owl is about the size of a robin, but its weight is only around 50-70 grams.
- Vermilion flycatcher: This bird is a bit larger than the bee hummingbird but is still very small, measuring only 8-9 cm in length.
- Calliope hummingbird: This species is found in North America and is one of the smallest hummingbirds, measuring about 7.5 cm in length.
Interesting Facts:
- The bee hummingbird's heart beats over 1,200 times per minute, which is incredibly fast!
- They can fly backwards and hover in mid-air like helicopters.
- Bee hummingbirds feed on nectar from flowers, using their long, slender bills to reach deep into the blossoms.
