Amazing facts about the world's smallest bird?
The world's smallest bird is the bee hummingbird (Mellisuga helenae), which is native to Cuba. Here are some amazing facts about this tiny bird:
1. Size: The bee hummingbird is only about 2.25 inches long (5.7 cm) and weighs less than a penny.
2. Wingspan: Despite its small size, the bee hummingbird has a wingspan of up to 4 inches (10 cm).
3. Speed: The bee hummingbird can flap its wings up to 80 times per second, which allows it to hover in mid-air and fly forwards, backwards, and even upside down.
4. Feeding: The bee hummingbird feeds primarily on nectar from flowers, and can consume up to 150% of its body weight in nectar each day.
5. Habitat: The bee hummingbird is found in the forests, shrublands, and gardens of Cuba, and is considered a national symbol of the country.
6. Nesting: The bee hummingbird builds a tiny, cup-shaped nest made of plant fibers and spider webs, and lays eggs that are smaller than a jellybean.
7. Lifespan: Despite its small size, the bee hummingbird can live up to 7 years in the wild.
8. Threats: The bee hummingbird is threatened by habitat loss, predation by invasive species such as cats and rats, and climate change.
9. Conservation: The bee hummingbird is protected by law in Cuba, and conservation efforts are underway to protect its habitat and raise awareness about the importance of preserving this unique species