Hummingbird

MFA Acc. #: 1976.514

Description

Several species of tiny birds (family Trochilidae) that are capable of hovering and flying backwards. Hummingbirds are native to the Americas with most of the species occurring in South America. They feed on flower nectar and insects. They often have iridescent or gem-like plumage that has been used for decoration in fans, headdresses, and hats.

Additional Images

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  Giant Hummingbird, Patagona gigas

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  Hummingbird

Authority

• Encyclopedia Britannica, http://www.britannica.com Comment: "hummingbird." Encyclopdia Britannica. 2005. Encyclopdia Britannica Premium Service 18 Mar. 2005 .

• Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia, at http://www.wikipedia.com Comment: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hummingbird