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Bee Hummingbird
Many of those interested in nature want to know ...
What is the smallest hummingbird?
The answer: The Bee Hummingbird!
Where can I see the smallest bird in the world?
The island of Cuba, in the Caribbean sea!
Common Name |
Bee Hummingbird |
Scientific Name |
Mellisuga helenae |
Size |
The smallest hummingbird, actually the smallest bird in the world: 2.24 inches (5.7 cm) in length, including the bill. The female is slightly larger than the male. The nest is only about 1"in diameter. |
Range and Status |
Endemic to Cuba, the Bee Hummingbird has a patchy distribution on the island. It is most frequently encountered on the extreme western end and in the Zapata Peninsula. This tiny hummingbird is found in the coastal forests, mountain valleys and interior forests of Cuba, preferring the lowland areas. It is now classified as "Near Threatened". They do not migrate. |
Characteristics and Identification |
This tiny bird weights only 2 grams, and appears rounded and plump! The male has a green pileum and bright red throat, iridescent gorget with elongated lateral plumes, bluish upper parts, and the rest of the underparts mostly greyish white. Females are bluish green with a pale gray underside. |
Bee Hummingbird |
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_adult_male_in_flight-cropped.jpg "Photo of the Bee Hummingbird in Cuba")
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