Why Are Hummingbird Babies Frequently Picking at Their Feathers?
Have you ever noticed your hummingbird babies in their nests constantly picking at their feathers? Don't worry, this is a perfectly normal stage in their development. There are several reasons behind this behavior, and understanding them will help you appreciate the amazing journey of these tiny creatures.
Itchy New Feathers
When baby hummingbirds hatch, their feathers are covered in a protective layer called a Feather Sheath, which is made of keratin, the same substance that forms our fingernails. This sheath must be broken away before the feathers can fully fluff out and mature. Think of it as a natural exoskeleton that protects the delicate feather structures while they are still developing. Until this outer layer is shed, the baby hummingbirds may feel an itchy, uncomfortable sensation as their new feathers grow in.
Learning to Preen
Taking care of their feathers, or preening, is a crucial part of a hummingbird's lifecycle. Many species of birds spend significant amounts of time each day in this activity. Preening involves aligning each feather and smoothing the tiny barbules that create the feather's structure. As with any skill, these delicate new feathers are not perfect when they first emerge. They may still be stiff or curled up a bit in their keratin sheaths, causing discomfort to the baby hummingbird. This is a very important stage in their development where they are learning to both protect and maintain their feathers. Seeing them pick at their feathers is actually a sign that they are growing and maturing.
Developing Coordination
Another reason you might see your baby hummingbirds frequently picking at their feathers is that they are developing their eye-beak coordination. Much like how young primates including humans develop eye-hand coordination, these tiny birds are learning to coordinate their eyes, beaks, and tongues to preen themselves. This complex skill is crucial for their survival as it helps protect them from predators, maintain their body temperature, and keep their feathers in optimal condition.
Exploring and Experimenting
Finally, it's possible that these baby birds are engaging in preening behavior play. Just as young children experiment with new skills and games, baby hummingbirds may be practicing and experimenting with using their beaks and tongues to groom themselves. This playful activity helps them understand and control their bodies, and is a natural part of their development.
Conclusion
So, the next time you see your baby hummingbirds picking at their feathers, remember that they are part of a normal and crucially important stage in their development. As a proud hummingbird owner or observer, you have the opportunity to witness the wonders of nature first-hand as these fascinating little creatures grow and mature. Enjoy the moment, and take pleasure in knowing that their playful and curious behavior is helping them become strong and healthy adult hummingbirds.
Preening Behavior
Birds, including hummingbirds, spend considerable time preening their feathers. This is an essential activity that helps them maintain their plumage, remove any dirt or parasites, and prepare their feathers for flight. Preening not only keeps their feathers neat and healthy but also helps them regulate their body temperature and keep clean.
Eye-Beak Coordination
Developing proper eye-beak coordination is essential for any bird. Hummingbirds, in particular, need to be able to coordinate their eyesight with their beaks to effectively pick at and groom their feathers. This coordination allows them to reach the most challenging spots on their bodies, ensuring that their feathers remain in the best possible condition.
Eye-Hand Coordination
Similar to how humans develop eye-hand coordination, young animals, especially primates, learn to coordinate their vision with their hands. This development is crucial for tasks ranging from gripping onto branches to manipulating food. For baby hummingbirds, this coordination is necessary for activities like preening, which involves precise movements and fine motor skills.
Behavioral Experimentation
Baby hummingbirds, like human infants, engage in behavioral experimentation. These events can range from simple play to more complex formative experiments. Preening is a natural part of this process, as the babies explore and discover how to use their new body parts effectively. This play helps them develop the fine motor skills necessary for survival and maturity.