Energy Requirements
Hummingbirds are small and require a great deal of energy to fly and to maintain their body temperature so their diet demands a food source rich in fuel. Nectar—a syrupy, sugar-rich liquid that is produced by flowers to attract pollinators—provides just the energy they need.
Also on the Menu
Although hummingbirds feed primarily on nectar, they can also supplement their diet with sap that seeps from holes in tree trunks. This is especially useful to species that migrate northward in the spring, before flowers are open and nectar is available. Hummingbirds also obtain the protein they need from eating small insects and spiders.
Sources
For a list of sources used in the creation of this visual guide, please see the Recommended Reading page.