What Lives With the Hummingbird?

Hummingbirds are the smallest of the birds and feed almost exclusively on flower nectar, pollen and the occasional insect. These tiny birds share their environment with other species, mostly insects, that feed in a similar manner. Hummingbirds use spider webs and moss in their nests, and their courtship rituals are complex and delightful. Many animals live in the same environment as these birds and some on the birds themselves.

  1. Butterflies

    • Many butterflies are nectar feeders and share the same flower interests in tube-shaped or red-colored flowers as the hummingbird. Monarch butterflies travel long distances and winter in South America just as many hummingbird species do. Butterflies drink the nectar with a long "tongue," while the hummingbirds use their slender, elongated bill. Both creatures are able to hover before the flower and to drink while in flight.

    Sphinx Moth

    • The sphinx moth, or hummingbird hawk moth, is found in similar environments as the hummingbird. The insect's birdlike body, "tail" and wings resemble those of the hummingbird, for which it is often mistaken. This moth drinks nectar in the same hovering manner as the hummingbird. It also shares an interest in the food produced by phlox, monarda, hosta, trumpet vines and other flowers frequented by hummingbirds.

    Bees

    • Bees such as bumblebee species and honeybees frequent the flowers and feeding stations of the hummingbird. Sometimes considered a nuisance, the yellow jacket wasp also enjoys the sugar water offered at hummingbird feeding stations. Bees become pests at feeding stations, crowding out the birds. Techniques such as moving the station or using special feeders that are too deep for bees and wasps to reach are often effective in keeping these hummingbird "partners" away.

    Hummingbird Mites

    • These tiny aphidlike mites are found in hummingbird noses. The mites use the hummingbirds to move from flower to flower for food and mating opportunities. They do this by hiding on the bird's beak. The mites must avoid being eaten before they are able to use the bird as a taxi. The mites race up the beak and shelter in the bird's nostril until they reach the next desired flower.