Hummingbirds are fascinating and impressive birds. They are not only the smallest migrating bird, measuring 7.5–13 centimeters in length, generally, but they are also the only known birds that can fly backward. The hummingbird moves their wings in figure eight, which allows the bird to easily move backward in the air. Their wing-flapping rates can reach 80 beats per second, and their heart rates can reach 1,260 beats per minute. Their wings beat so fast that they make a humming noise, which ended up earning the bird its name.

With such rapid metabolism, hummingbirds have a long lifespan. A female broad-tailed hummingbird was recorded to live as long as 12 years old. The lifespan of north American species is about three to five years on average.

Here are some photos of this beautiful bird.

About 'Melody of Birds'

"Melody of Birds" is a series of pictures about lovely birds in the world. Stay tuned to see more charming bird photos under the theme.

For more:

Guinea Fowl: The best security guard you can employ

Does forever love really exist?

Atlantic puffin: Clown of the sea

Meet the bird with a half-moon crest on its head

Melody of Birds: Beautiful birds and fantastic flowers

Melody of Birds: Cooling down in summer

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