Fact #28
June 26, 2026The Hummingbird is the Only Bird That Can Fly Backward
This remarkable skill comes from their unique shoulder joints and figure-eight wing motion. Most birds flap their wings up and down, while hummingbirds rotate their wings to generate lift in both directions. This allows them to hover in place, move sideways, or even reverse out of flowers.
Mini Facts
1
Hummingbirds are the only birds capable of sustained backward flight.
2
Depending on the species, their wings can beat around 720 times to 5,400 times per minute while hovering.
3
About 25% to 30% of a hummingbird's body weight is made up of flight muscles, which help power its incredible agility.
4
During migration, some hummingbirds fly roughly 500 miles nonstop across the Gulf of Mexico.