Hummingbird Pulls Top Gun Stunts

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We have Anna's, Allen's and Rufous, along with some periodic migrators. But the male Allen's seem to be our greatest performers! They make a sound, in flight, that is akin to a mini chain saw, so we always know when they are around. The males will defend their feeding territories with displays that marvel our senses. They begin with a swinging arc, back and forth, for approximately 4 to 5 swings:, then they shoot straight up in the air and proceed to dive straight down over their chosen point of intimidation, pulling out at the last second! As they are diving down and begin to pull out it sounds just like a little missile heading our way! They provide us with wonderful entertainment and are truly amazing little creatures!

Barb of CA 11:34AM May 29, 2010

I get many of these at my feeder, along with Costa's, and I knew about their aereal displays. I didn't know they could dive at 9G's. I, also, did not know that they flapped their wings before the dive.
This is incredible info. I love it that the females aren't impressed by the males' pick-up "line."

Smitten of AZ 12:35AM July 04, 2009

As we have a lot of Hummers coming to our feeders I have seen the little bullets. But never realized excstly just how incredible they are.
we have 8 feeders out 1 64 oz,6 quarts and this year I am up to 63 pounds of sugar just to feed them all. I have boths Rufus and Annas.
We realy enjoy those little acrobatic fliers.

Annelise Johnston of WA 10:11AM June 12, 2009