ChrisJones 7,975 Posted June 3, 2017 Report Share Posted June 3, 2017 Hovering[edit] The ruby-throated hummingbird can beat its wings 52 times a second. Several bird species use hovering, one family even specialized in it. True hovering by generating lift through flapping alone rather than by passage through the air demands a lot of energy. This usually confines the ability to smaller birds, but some larger birds such as a Kite [12] or an Osprey [13][14] can hover for a short period of time. Although not a true hover, some birds remain in a fixed position relative to the ground or water by flying into a headwind. Kestrels, terns and even hawks use this wind hovering. Most birds that hover have high aspect ratio wings that are suited to low speed flying. One major exception to this are the hummingbirds, which are the most accomplished hoverers of all the birds. Hummingbird flight is different from other bird flight in that the wing is extended throughout the whole stroke, the stroke being a symmetrical figure of eight, with the wing producing lift on both the up- and down-stroke. Some hummingbirds can beat their wings 52 times a second, though others do so less frequently. I have honeysuckle growing next to my house. It's usually full of hummers when they flower. They're amazing to watch and watching dogfight for territory is aerobatics at it's finest! They can also fly backwards! Within 10 minuets walk of my house I can see barn owls ... goshawks ... kestrels ... sparrow hawks ... buzzards and red kites ....... I miss seeing the kites but appreciate the closeness. Here I have ospreys (two are nesting in the same spot as last year,) turkey vultures, golden eagles, red-tailed hawks... Better than anything on the telly. 1 Quote Link to post Share on other sites
ChrisJones 7,975 Posted June 3, 2017 Report Share Posted June 3, 2017 Crow appreciation... 2 Quote Link to post Share on other sites
mackem 27,040 Posted June 3, 2017 Report Share Posted June 3, 2017 Anyone truly wants to see and photograph a lot,and I mean a LOT of BOP's get yourself to Gibraltar in the autumn,mid-end of September is best,thousands of BOP's pass over the rock daily,loads of species. 1 Quote Link to post Share on other sites
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