Here is an overview of the hummingbird's life cycle:
1. Egg: Hummingbirds lay tiny eggs that are incubated by the female for a period of about 16-20 days.
2. Hatching: After the incubation period, the eggs hatch, and the hatchlings are called "hummingbird chicks" or "nestlings." These chicks are completely dependent on their parents for food and care.
3. Nestling Stage: During the nestling stage, which lasts for about 18-22 days, the hummingbird chicks grow rapidly. They are born with very limited feathers, and their eyes are closed. They rely on their parents to bring them food, usually in the form of regurgitated nectar and small insects.
4. Fledgling Stage: As the hummingbird chicks continue to grow, they develop feathers and their flight muscles strengthen. At around 3-4 weeks of age, they reach the fledgling stage. Fledglings are able to leave the nest and take short flights, but they still depend on their parents for food.
5. Independence: After a few days of fledging, the young hummingbirds become fully independent and can fly on their own to find food. They start establishing their territories and begin the process of finding mates and reproducing.
So, while hummingbirds are fascinating creatures with exceptional flying abilities, they do not have the ability to fly immediately upon hatching. It takes several weeks of growth, development, and learning before they can take flight.