The Largest Hummingbird: The Giant Hummingbird

When it comes to hummingbirds, the Giant Hummingbird (Patagona gigas) stands out as the largest species in the world. With an impressive wingspan of about 8 inches and a body length of 9 inches, this bird is a remarkable sight. Far larger than the average hummingbird, the Giant Hummingbird is almost as long as a starling but much lighter, weighing about 20 grams.

Range and Habitat

The Giant Hummingbird's range is along the western mountains of South America, specifically spanning from Ecuador to Chile and Argentina. This bird is the largest of the species, as it is nearly 4 times bigger than the smallest hummingbird, the Bee Hummingbird, which measures only 2 to 2.4 inches long.

Audubon and Hummingbirds

John James Audubon, America’s premier wildlife artist in the 19th century, provided fascinating insight into capturing the details of hummingbirds. Audubon utilized a rather unique method to get his subjects—the hummingbirds, in this case—immobilized. He would offer them red wine, which would cause them to pass out, making them easier to draw. This practice, although not condoned today, was surprisingly common in Audubon's time. Despite his large collection of bird sketches and paintings, Audubon faces criticism for his hunting practices, including the shooting of thousands of birds.

Importance of this Bird

The Giant Hummingbird is not only the largest but also a remarkable specimen among hummingbirds due to its size. While other hummingbirds range from 2.4 grams to 4.5 grams, the Giant Hummingbird stands at the upper end of this range, weighing nearly an ounce (15 times the weight of the Bee Hummingbird, the smallest species at 0.056 ounces).

The bird is found in the western regions of South America, specifically along the Andes mountains, which is a stark contrast to the more common, and smaller, Ruby-throated Hummingbird found in North America.

For bird enthusiasts like me, who are most familiar with the 3-to-4-inch-long Ruby-throated Hummingbird, the chance to observe a Giant Hummingbird would be a thrilling experience. Its size and unique characteristics make it a fascinating subject for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts alike.

Conclusion

The Giant Hummingbird is a testament to the diversity and wonder of the hummingbird species. Despite its size, it remains a subject of admiration for its remarkable features and behavior. Whether you are a seasoned ornithologist or a casual birdwatcher, the Giant Hummingbird offers a unique glimpse into the world of these tiny but mighty birds.