The Migration Conundrum: Why Hummingbirds' Reliance on Backyard Feeders Matters As autumn's chill sets in, hummingbirds must fuel up for their treacherous journey south.
These tiny, iridescent birds rely heavily on our backyards to build the energy reserves they need to survive their migrations.
Hummingbirds burn energy at an astonishing rate, requiring a 25 40% increase in body fat reserves just before departure. This is made possible by their ability to eat constantly, a trait known as hyperphagia.