As backyard birdwatchers, people will sometimes form some recognition of – and attachment to – familiar animals, whether it’s an identifiable deer, squirrel, or bird. Some people, especially those that feed wildlife, may wonder if the animal forms a similar attachment.

(We have some unbelievable examples of hummingbirds connecting with humans at the bottom of this article)

Hummingbirds are one animal that draws humans’ intrigue. Northern birdwatchers carefully mix hummingbird sugar solution each spring, place it where hummingbirds will find it, and wait for the birds’ yearly arrival, while those in the southern United States may feed and enjoy these birds all year round.

While it’s impossible to know exactly what hummingbirds (or any wild animal, for that matter) are thinking at any given moment, birds are extremely intelligent animals. So, do hummingbirds recognize humans?

Numerous studies over the years have confirmed the intelligence of our feathered friends, but a pair of studies that focused specifically on birds’ abilities to recognize humans helped establish their connection to people.

Two 2012 studies by University of Vienna researchers showed that crows and pigeons could differentiate between humans.

A study published in Avian Biology Research showed that pigeons might be able to pick between familiar and unfamiliar humans based on facial features. In contrast, a study in Animal Cognition showed that crows can discriminate between familiar and unfamiliar people based on their “auditory stimuli.”

A 2011 Animal Cognition article showed that magpies could discriminate between people that had accessed their nests in the past and those that had not. The magpies reacted aggressively to those that had accessed the nest in the past and showed little to no reaction to unfamiliar people.

There hasn’t been ironclad research-based confirmation that adds hummingbirds to the list of birds that can identify specific human beings, but hummingbirds are very intelligent birds. With that in mind, many believe that hummingbirds can recognize people.

Andy Hurly, a researcher at the University of Lethbridge, showed that hummingbirds can remember flowers by their spatial locations along with when they last visited a flower, and can associate time and place for perhaps upwards of eight different flowers.

The same logic may apply to hummingbirds’ understanding of people, especially regarding food. If a bird can remember flowers, it may also remember humans.

Whether a hummingbird remembers who you are, they’ll remember where they found food. So, if you enjoy seeing a hummingbird population in your yard, continue to plant native flowering plants that provide the birds with nectar, create a healthy habitat, and supplement those offerings with a sugar solution in a hummingbird feeder, if necessary.

Do hummingbirds return to the same spot every year?

The life expectancy of the average hummingbird varies by species but is generally between three and five years. During this time, hummingbirds may return to the same location yearly, especially one that provides excellent food and habitat.

If you see a hummingbird in your yard, it’s challenging to prove that it’s the same one you saw last year without any identifiable markings. But that doesn’t mean you’re not seeing the same birds year after year.

Why are hummingbirds flying so close to me?

There are several reasons why hummingbirds may be in your space. The first is a natural curiosity, and the second is that they may be attracted to you for some reason, mainly color.

Hummingbirds are attracted to red, orange, and yellow. If you’re wearing a bright article of clothing or sitting next to a colorful object, hummingbirds may fly by just to check it out in search of food.

While hummingbirds are considered nectar feeders, they also eat small insects, so a hummingbird in your vicinity could also just be chasing after insects. Some people say that hummingbirds may try to alert humans to empty feeders, but that hasn’t been scientifically proven.

Are hummingbirds aggressive?

If a hummingbird is humming around you, your first natural reaction might be a negative one born out of shock. However, it’s unlikely that a hummingbird means you any harm. In most fight vs. flight situations, these tiny birds will likely choose the latter.

If you feel that a hummingbird is responding to you aggressively, you may be near a nest that the bird feels called to protect. Once you move out of the area and are no longer a threat, it’s not expected that any bird, including the smallest ones on the planet, will continue to pick a fight.

What do hummingbird noises mean?

Given their minuscule size, hummingbirds are not loud birds. If one is close enough, you may hear their wingbeats during their flights around your yard. You might also hear their calls, which often come as a series of chatters.

You may hear some hummingbirds “chip” in the morning or call one another in interactions between multiple birds, including during chases.

Examples Of Hummingbirds Remembering People

Thankfully, the internet let’s us share moments where hummingbirds seem to make a connection with humans. 

We’ve covered a number of these on our blog and will share a quick recap here: 

Why Handfeed This Hummer?

• Background: The video creator, known as Birdperson666 on TikTok, started hand-feeding hummingbirds using feeders gifted by his partner after losing a close family member.
• Spiritual Connection: He learned that visits from hummingbirds can have spiritual significance, motivating him to give hand-feeding a try.

Gaining the Hummer’s Trust

• Initial Steps: He began by gluing a hand feeder to a window-mounted seed feeder, allowing the hummingbird to get used to his presence from a distance.
• Gradual Progress: Over time, he started opening the window and offering a hand feeder directly, speaking to the bird to build trust. Within four days, the hummingbird, named Hector, was feeding from his hand and even turning his back, indicating trust.

A Beautiful Friendship

• Regular Visits: Hector the hummingbird now visits daily, sometimes waiting by the window for his snack. He even approaches Birdperson666 when he’s outside without a feeder, showcasing their strong bond.
• Enjoying the Connection: This daily interaction provides a heartwarming connection with nature that many birdwatchers aim for.

Handfeeding Birds in Your Backyard

• Inspired to Try?: If this story inspires you to hand-feed birds, consider using handheld feeders. Take it slow to allow birds to acclimate to your presence.
• Tips for Success:
  • Be Patient: Hummingbirds are cautious and need time to trust you.
  • Stay Still: Hold still when trying to attract or hand-feed them.
  • Use Bright Colors: Wear red or other bright colors to attract hummingbirds.

By following these steps and keeping fresh nectar available, you too can enjoy a special connection with one of nature’s most fascinating creatures.

For more detailed tips and recommendations, read the full article here.

Check Out the Man Who Makes Wearable Hummingbird Feeders

By Kelsey Mlnarik

JR Gordon has a truly unique hobby: he uses wearable hummingbird feeders to get an up-close and personal view of these magnificent birds. While it might sound unconventional, his methods have proven to be effective and heartwarming. Here are some highlights and tips you can take from his experience.

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Key Points

Getting Up Close and Personal

• Unique Approach: JR Gordon uses various wearable feeders attached to his glasses, balanced on his forehead, or even held in his mouth.
• Interaction: The hummingbirds have developed trust in him, freely drinking from his wearable feeders while he stays calm and still.

Handfeeding Hummingbirds

• Attracting Birds: Hummingbirds are attracted to bright colors, especially red. Wearing bright clothing and accessories can help draw them in.
• Building Trust: Remain very still and allow the birds to get used to your presence and the food source you’re offering.
• Memory: Hummingbirds have excellent memories and can remember feeder locations, so place your feeders early in the season to establish their routine.

Is Handfeeding Good for Hummingbirds?

• Risks: Handfeeding is generally safe, but it’s important to be aware that not everyone may appreciate birds flying near their face, which could pose risks to the birds.
• Nectar Recipe: Make your own nectar using 4 parts water to 1 part white sugar. Avoid sugar substitutes, brown sugar, honey, and red dyes as they can be harmful to the birds.

Trying It for Yourself

If you’d like to try using a wearable hummingbird feeder, consider the following points:

• DIY vs. Purchase: You can create your own wearable feeders or purchase ready-made ones designed for this purpose.
• Types of Feeders: Options include feeders attached to hats, rings, or window mounts. Choose the style that suits your comfort level and setup.

Additional Tips

• Patience: Hummingbirds are cautious and may take time to trust you. Be patient and consistent with your efforts.
• Hold Still: Movement can scare hummingbirds away, so try to remain as still as possible.
• Bright Colors: Wearing bright red clothing or accessories can attract hummingbirds and make it easier for them to find you.

By following these guidelines, you too can enjoy the magical experience of interacting closely with hummingbirds, just like JR Gordon.

For more detailed insights and to see JR Gordon’s techniques in action, read the full article here.