–by Raymond Cloyd — Horticultural Entomology
Hummingbirds feed on nectar from flowers (Figure 1) because they cannot survive exclusively on the sugar water provided in hummingbird feeders (Figure 2). Consequently, hummingbirds feed on insects to obtain protein for muscle and feather development. Insects are an important source of amino acids, fats, fiber, salts, and other nutrients required for a balanced diet. Hummingbirds generally feed on insects that can be easily captured and swallowed, such as; ants, aphids, beetles, gnats, mosquitoes, and certain wasps (Figure 3). Hummingbirds will also eat insect larvae and eggs.
Figure. 1. Hummingbird Feeding On Nectar from Flower (Bird Watching HQ)
Figure. 2. Hummingbird Feeding On Sugar Water from Bird Feeder (Bird Feeder Hub)
Figure. 3. Hummingbird Eating On Wasp (The Spruce)
Hummingbirds can eat between several hundred to a thousand insects in one day although the number of insects consumed varies depending on insect availability, insect type, and the dietary needs of hummingbirds.
Hummingbirds catch insects that are feeding on flowers, grab insects directly in the air, remove insects from spider webs, or snatch insects from the undersides of tree leaves. Hummingbirds cannot dismember their prey because of their body size and long, slender mouthparts (bills). Consequently, hummingbirds swallow insect’s whole.