While we have known for some time that hummingbirds cannot survive on a diet of sugar water and/or nectar alone. These tiny birds must also capture and eat insects to maintain a proper balance of proteins and nutrients. That being the case, have you ever wonder how many insects a hummingbird must consume in a day?
Dr. Gregor Yanega of the National Evolutionary Synthesis Center has provided us with the answer. According to Dr. Yanega, “Hummingbirds need the equivalent of 300 fruit flies a day to survive.”
FEMALE RUBY-THROATED-HUMMINGBIRD; Photo credit: Terry W Johnson
Wow! Who would have ever guessed that they needed that much to survive. Good post, Terry.
William,
For quite some time I have been looking for a reliable figure that quantifies insect usage. I thought this was great since the researcher put it in terms so can all understand.