Although fragile, hummingbirds battling over territory can cause significant damage.
“It’s very normal behavior because they’re fighting over food sources,” said Lisa Meyers Swanson, a hummingbird photographer and founder of The Hummingbird Whisperer social media page. “But they can kill each other.”
Rufous and ruby-throated hummingbirds are noted for their aggression, yet numerous clashes are usual. They fight blue jays and other larger birds to defend their territories.
During breeding season, males compete for females and defend their feeding zone. Hummingbirds warn with piercing chirps, males flashing their neck feathers, or hovering in front of the intruder before diving.
Jody Kieran of Fallen Feathers, a recognized rehabilitation facility in Peoria, Arizona, says, “If you can catch a hummingbird, normally it needs help.”