Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
Hummingbirds are small birds known for their ability to hover in mid-air by rapidly flapping their wings. They play an important role in ecosystems as pollinators.
Related terms
Nectarivore: An animal that primarily feeds on nectar from flowers. Hummingbirds fall into this category because they consume nectar for energy.
Iridescent feathers: These are feathers that appear to change color when viewed from different angles due to structural coloration. Many hummingbird species have these types of feathers.
Torpor: This is a state of decreased physiological activity in an animal, usually characterized by reduced metabolism, heart rate, and respiration. Hummingbirds enter torpor to conserve energy when food is scarce.