Defending Their Turf

Why hummingbirds guard their territories so fiercely.

- By Kenn and Kimberly Kaufman

Two rufous hummingbirds square off.

A hummingbird is a wonder to behold as it dances in the air to sip sweet nectar from flowers. You might imagine that such a delicate lover of sweetness would be among the most peaceful creatures in the world.

In reality, whenever two or more hummingbirds are present, things can get a little tense. The feisty birds zoom about, sparring in midair or chasing each other with chattering cries-relentless in their desire to defend their spaces.

Pollinator Contract

Hummingbirds, butterflies, bees and other pollinators each have a relationship with flowers that benefits both sides. Flowers produce nectar, which is rich in sugar, to attract these creatures. In turn, the birds and insects pick up pollen from one flower and carry it to another, helping the plant to reproduce.

But each bloom produces only a small amount of nectar at a time. If a hummingbird finds a group of flowers, it may visit them one at a time, taking sips from each while waiting for the others to replenish. A good flower patch might keep a hummingbird supplied with food all day-but only as long as the hummer can keep other fliers away.