How fast can a hummingbird flap its wings?

Hummingbirds are famous for their incredible wing flapping speed. These tiny birds have the unique ability to hover in midair by flapping their wings incredibly quickly. So, just how fast can a hummingbird flap its wings?

On average, a hummingbird can flap its wings anywhere between 50 and 80 times per second, depending on the species. This means that during flight, the wings of a hummingbird can beat up to 4,800 times per minute! This is one of the reasons why hummingbirds are capable of such incredible aerial acrobatics.

In addition to their rapid wing flapping, hummingbirds are also known for their ability to rotate their wings in a figure-eight motion. This allows them to generate lift on both the upstroke and downstroke, providing them with even more lift and maneuverability in flight.

Overall, hummingbirds are fascinating creatures with incredible abilities. Their wing flapping speed and figure-eight motion are just a couple of the ways that they are able to fly with such grace and precision.