Hummingbirds

Hummingbirds are among the smallest birds in North America, known for their ability to hover and fly in all directions. Their wings beat rapidly, allowing them to remain suspended while feeding on nectar from flowers.

Because of their extremely fast metabolism, hummingbirds must eat frequently throughout the day. In addition to nectar, they consume tiny insects and spiders for essential nutrients. They also play an important role as pollinators.

Behavior

Hummingbirds are active during the day and spend most of their time feeding. They may visit many flowers each day to meet their energy needs.

At night or during food shortages, they can enter a state called torpor, where their body slows dramatically. In this state, they may appear weak or even lifeless.

Common Reasons for Rescue

• Window collisions

• Exhaustion or starvation

• Predator encounters (especially cats)

• Exposure to cold or heat

• Babies falling from nests

Due to their size, even minor injuries can quickly become serious.

Signs a Hummingbird Needs Help

• Sitting on the ground

• Unable to fly

• Easily approached or handled

• Fluffed up or unresponsive

• Visible injury

• Baby found outside the nest

If a hummingbird does not fly away, it likely needs assistance.

What To Do With an Injured Hummingbird

• Gently place the bird in a small, ventilated box

• Line with soft tissue

• Keep in a quiet, dark, warm place

• Avoid handling

Reducing stress is critical for survival.

Feeding (Emergency Only)

Hummingbirds feed primarily on nectar, which provides the energy they need to survive. In the wild, they supplement this with small insects for protein.

If emergency feeding is necessary, only use:

• 1 part white sugar

• 4 parts water

Do not use honey, artificial sweeteners, or dyed nectar.

Offer a small drop at the tip of the beak. Allow the bird to drink on its own. Do not force feed.

⚠️ Safety reminder: Do not give the bird food or water unless instructed by a wildlife professional. Birds can easily aspirate liquids or suffer complications from inappropriate foods.

Stunned Hummingbirds

If a hummingbird hits a window:

• Place it in a dark, quiet box

• Wait 15–30 minutes

• Release if it recovers

If it does not improve, seek help.

Baby Hummingbirds

If you find one or more baby hummingbirds outside of the nest:

• Return to the nest if possible

• Observe for the mother’s return

• If unsafe, place nearby in a small container and contact a Shalom Wildlife Hospital or another wildlife rehabilitator

Do not attempt long-term feeding. Babies require specialized care.

When to Contact a Rehabilitator

• Injury or bleeding

• Cannot fly

• Weak or unresponsive

• Baby without a nest

Prompt care is essential.

Our Care

At Shalom Wildlife Hospital, hummingbirds receive specialized treatment including warming, hydration, and careful feeding. Once recovered, they are released back into the wild. If you have found an injured or orphaned hummingbird, contact us or another wildlife rehabilitator to ensure it receives the care it needs.