What Does a Hummingbird Weight: 2-20 Grams!

Hummingbirds typically weight between 2 and 20 grams.

Hummingbirds are known for their small size and rapid wing movement. Part of what makes them so agile is their extremely low weight.

Species like the Bee Hummingbird, the smallest bird in the world, can weigh as little as 2 grams.

Larger species such as the Giant Hummingbird, can weigh up to 20 grams. On average, most hummingbirds typically fall within the 3 to 5 grams range.

Four facts about hummingbird weight:

Most hummingbird species weigh significantly less than a penny and have tiny bodies, allowing them to maneuver quickly and easily in the air.

Their high metabolism helps them stay warm and maintain their weight despite long migrations, and their light bodies make for effortless flight.

As some of the smallest living birds, hummingbirds can be a delight and a challenge to spot.

7 Species of Weight of Hummingbirds

Species	Average Weight (grams)
Ruby-Throated Hummingbird	3.0
Black-Chinned Hummingbird	3.5
Anna’s Hummingbird	4.3
Costa’s Hummingbird	3.4
Rufous Hummingbird	3.2
Broad-Tailed Hummingbird	3.6
Allen’s Hummingbird	3.1

What Is The Average Weight Of A Hummingbird?

The average weight of a hummingbird is between 2 and 3 grams. It is often considered the lightest bird in the world, with some weighing less than 1 gram.

Hummingbirds are extremely small, but they are very powerful and can fly up to 34 miles per hour. Their wings beat at an astounding rate of about 50 times per second.

To stay hydrated, hummingbirds feed on nectar and bugs found in flowers, as well as occasionally eating small spiders and other insects.

Factors Affecting the Average Weight of a Hummingbird:

What Is The Weight Range Of A Hummingbird?

The average weight range of a hummingbird is around 2 to 6 grams. Generally this varies mainly according to species and varies little in individuals.

The smallest species, Bee Hummingbirds, average 2 grams while giant hummingbirds like the Andean may reach 6 grams.

The most common species present in North America and Europe, the Ruby-throated Hummingbirds, average between 3 and 4 grams.

What Factors Affect A Hummingbird’s Weight?

The main factors that affect a hummingbird’s weight are species, age, breeding status and environment. Species play a major role in the weight of hummingbirds as each species is different and have differing body sizes.

Age is also a factor, as newly hatched chicks usually have half the weight of adult hummingbirds. Breeding status is also a factor, as males are usually heavier than females.

The environment also influences the weight of hummingbirds, as different climates produce different amounts of food which affects the size and weight of the birds.

Here are some of the factors that affect a hummingbird’s weight:

What Is The Lightest Recorded Weight Of A Hummingbird?

The world record for the lightest hummingbird is held by the Barbthroat Emerald hummingbird, which weighs 2.6g. This is about the same weight as four quarters.

Other hummingbird species weigh in slightly heavier, usually between 3-5g. These small weights make hummingbirds some of the lightest birds, and their small body sizes make them aerodynamic and excellent fliers.

What Is The Heaviest Recorded Weight Of A Hummingbird?

The heaviest recorded weight of the hummingbird is 2.6 grams, which is equivalent to 0.09 ounces.

This is the weight of the Giant Hummingbird, the largest hummingbird species, which is found in parts of South and Central America.

All hummingbird species have exceptionally small bodies, equipped with light but dense bones and specialized flight muscles that allow them to fly as fast as 34 miles per hour.

They also have a larger wingspan for their size and an extra layer of feathers for insulation.

Do Different Species of Hummingbirds Have Different Weights?

Yes, different species of hummingbirds have different weights. The average weight of a hummingbird is between 2 and 6 grams, with some being as small as 1 gram and others weighing up to 10 grams.

The size of the hummingbird species and the environment in which it lives can determine the exact amount it weighs. For example, Ruby-throated hummingbirds can weigh as little as 2g and are found in eastern

North America. Meanwhile, the black-chinned hummingbird, which live in the western U.S., can weigh up to 8g.

Similarly, the largest of the hummingbird family, the Giant Hummingbird, can weigh up to 10g. In terms of size, hummingbirds typically range from 3-4 inches in length.

The Factors affecting Hummingbird’s Weight:

How Are Hummingbird Weights Measured?

Hummingbird weights are typically measured in grams, which is the equivalent of 1/28th of an ounce. This is done with a tiny scale specifically designed for weighing small birds.

Additionally, measurements can also be taken with calipers or a jig. With calipers, the length of the bird from its tip of the beak to the tip of the tail can accurately be determined.

With a jig, a paper can be laid in an open jig and the bird is placed in the paper. The paper is then used to measure the bird’s wingspan.

FAQ of What Does A Hummingbird Weight

Conclusion

Hummingbirds are some of the world’s smallest birds and typically weigh between 2 and 20 grams on average.

Their small bodies and fast metabolism help them maneuver quickly and easily in the air, while also providing needed energy to sustain flight during long migrations.

With the least weighing in at only 2 grams and the Giant Hummingbird topping out at 20 grams, these tiny birds can be a delightful sight.