Alien  Earthlings
Bee Hummingbird

The bee hummingbird (Mellisuga helenae), locally known in Cuba as the zunzuncito, is officially the smallest living bird in the world. Weighing less than a dime (under 2 grams) and measuring a mere 2.2 inches (5.7 cm) in length, this miniature marvel is barely larger than a large bumblebee. 

Physical Characteristics

• Weight: Males average 1.95 grams, while females are slightly heavier at 2.6 grams.

• Length: Roughly 5.5 to 6 cm long. Bill and tail make up half of this length.

• Male Plumage: Highly striking with an iridescent, fiery red head and throat plummage, a turquoise back, and a white breast.

• Female Plumage: Subdued turquoise-green upperparts with a dingy white or pale gray underside

Geographic Range & Habitat

The bee hummingbird is completely endemic to Cuba. It is not found in the wild anywhere else on Earth. They typically live near forest edges, woodlands, and coastal areas where vines, shrubs, and bromeliads are abundant. Major populations survive within protected regions such as the Zapata Peninsula Reserve and the Guanahacabibes National Park

The Bee Hummingbird feeds on three basic resources: nectar, insects, and arachnids. As a result, the species’ seasonal movements are tightly coupled with the flowering periods of plants. There is ample evidence that the species makes local movements in search of food. Its vigorously territorial behavior may relate to both a breeding territory and, in the postbreeding period, a secondary territory established for food. Both are defended against intruders.