Hummingbirds: Magic in the Air

Mark Jan. 10 on your 2010 calendar for a new PBS Nature program all about those flashy little Napoleons, hummingbirds. Even nonbirders enjoy seeing these diminutive birds, so consider sharing the news with friends and relatives who don't own bird field guides.


For now, feast your eyes on this incredible video! The dramatic slow-motion sequences reveal some of these birds' awesomeness.

From PBS:

Because hummingbirds live their lives in fast forward, much of their fascinating world is typically lost to human perception. But using cameras able to capture over 500 images a second, the hummingbirds’ magical world can finally be seen and appreciated. Amazing footage shows these little powerhouses are far more than delicate nectar gatherers — they are also deadly predators. And watch as the birds display their elaborate mating rituals, showing off with nose dives that subject them to over ten G’s of force — enough to cause an experienced fighter pilot to black out!

Anyone else tempted to host a viewing party with sugar water on the menu?