A few distinctive characteristics

Ruby-throated Hummingbirds Archilochus colubris Credit: Bob Isaac (Size: 149.31 kb)

Acclimatized

The Ruby-throated Hummingbird is marvelously adapted to the rigours of climate. It lowers its body temperature and reduces its heart rate on cool nights. Its respiration is interrupted at times for brief moments. Due to this particular adaptation, Ruby-throated Hummingbirds are able to survive at temperatures below 0°C. The period of torpor (temporary dormant state) may extend from 8 to 14 hours. Their metabolism returns to normal after about an hour. To learn more about thermoregulation in hummingbirds, follow this link.

Ruby-throated Hummingbirds (juvenile male) Archilochus colubris Credit: Serge Beaudette (Size: 111.88 kb)

Lifespan

The record lifespan of a Ruby-throated Hummingbird is 9 years, but on average they live 2 to 3 years. To learn more about hummingbird predators, follow this link.

Ruby-throated Hummingbirds Archilochus colubris Credit: cash52 (Size: 32.59 kb)

As fast as lightning

The Ruby-throated Hummingbird moves at an incredible speed. Its wingbeats have been calculated through filming and photographs, establishing a rhythm of 55 to 75 beats per second. To learn more about hummingbird flight, follow this link.