How long do hummingbirds live?
A hummingbird lives an average of 3 to 5 years in the wild, although many individuals can reach up to 8 or 12 years in exceptional cases.

Life expectancy and key facts

• First year: This is the most difficult stage; most chicks do not survive their first year of life due to predators and the weather.
• In the wild: Those that survive the first year usually live 3 to 5 years.
• Maximum records: Some species, such as the ruby-throated hummingbird, have been known to live more than 9 years in nature.
• In captivity: Their life expectancy increases significantly, and they can live up to 15 years.

Why is their lifespan so short?

• They have an extremely fast metabolism and a very high heart rate.
• They need to consume a lot of nectar daily to avoid starving.
• They face predators such as cats, birds of prey, and large insects, in addition to the dangers of migration.

Choco Tocuan Reserve and Lodge Mindo Ecuador