Hummingbirds are known for their speed and agility, reaching speeds of 20 to 30 miles per hour in regular flight
. Speeds can increase up to 60 mph during dives
. Some hummingbird species can reach speeds greater than 33 miles per hour
. Several factors influence a hummingbird's flight speed:
- Wing Speed The wings of a hummingbird flap rapidly, and the smaller the hummingbird, the faster its wings flap
. Wing speed varies among species, from 10 to over 80 times per second while hovering
- Courtship Displays Male hummingbirds frequently dive at high speeds during courtship to attract mates, reaching up to 63 miles per hour
- Defense Hummingbirds are capable of reaching incredible speeds when retreating from attack or defending their territories
Wing Flapping Speed of Certain Hummingbird Species
:
- Large Hummingbirds: around 21 times per second.
- Ruby-throated Hummingbird: around 55 times per second.
- Rufous Hummingbird: around 62 times per second.
- Calliope Hummingbird: around 67 times per second.
- Smallest Hummingbirds: around 80 times per second.
