by David Dewitt

Created on: November 04, 2008   Last Updated: November 11, 2008

Hummingbirds are absolutely, fascinating to watch as they flit, float, and fly in backyards all across the country. With their brilliant colors, unique flying abilities, and their signature humming sound, hummingbirds are a backyard favorite. Ohio has been enormously, blessed with an abundance of the only bird that can fly backwards. Many people enjoy hummingbirds but know little about these amazing creatures.

How the Hummingbird Can Fly Backwards?

Unlike other birds, hummingbirds have the ability to rotate their wings in a complete circle. This ability allows them to float in the air by using a figure eight pattern of motion. This motion gives the hummingbird power on the up and downbeat of their wings. By doing this their wings allow them to move backwards, up, down and forward. The unique nature of the hummingbirds wings also give them the ability to float in midair. This ability also lends itself to the apparent glow or blending of color. When a hummingbird beats their wings, the motion is so rapid that it gives the illusion that they are iridescent. Their wings and their special abilities also provide the hummingbird with their unusual humming sound.

Myths about Hummingbirds

There are a number of myths or misconceptions about hummingbirds. These various beliefs have developed over the years; none are based on scientific facts. Among the more unusual misconceptions are the following.

1.) Hummingbirds are a cross between insects and birds

An early report to Queen Isabella of Spain included a report that a strange bird, who hummed like insect, was able to float in the air, and had the body of a small bird.

2.) Hummingbirds never land

This seems more than a little absurd. Hummingbirds do indeed land. I have seen them land on a feeder in my backyard. Common sense tells us that they have to land to rest and nest. Hummingbirds would not be able to reproduce and lay eggs if they lacked the ability to land.

3.) Hummingbirds have no feet

Hummingbirds do have feet and they do land. However, there is some basis for this misconception. It is a fact that hummingbirds do not walk on their feet.

4.) Hummingbirds migrate by riding other larger birds

There is no basis for this misconception. Hummingbirds have been seen, in close proximity to geese and the assumption was that the hummingbirds were using the geese for a ride. The thinking was that the hummers would need assistance in migrating south for the winter.

5.) Hummingbirds eat by sucking nectar through their beak

Hummingbirds

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