Ruby-throated Hummingbird - Longevity and Mortality

Longevity and Mortality

The oldest known Ruby-throated Hummingbird to be banded was 9 years and 1 month of age. Almost all hummingbirds of 7 years or older in age are females, with males rarely surviving past 5 years of age. Reasons for higher mortality in males may include loss of weight during the breeding season due to the high energetic demands of defending a territory followed by energetically costly migration. There are several small animals who predate these hummingbirds given the opportunity. Chiefly among these are Sharp-shinned Hawks, domestic cats and loggerhead shrikes, all of which are likely to ambush the hummingbird while it sits on a perch. Bird-eating lizards and snakes may predate the species, especially on its subtropical wintering grounds. Also largemouth bass, bullfrogs and green frogs have reportedly grabbed hummingbirds when they've attempted to go for a drink, despite their swift flying speeds. Even large, predaceous invertebrates have preyed on Ruby-throated Hummingbirds, including praying mantises, orb-weaving spiders and Green Darners. Blue jays are common predators of nests.