Learning and spatial memory in Ruby-throated Hummingbird (Archilochus colubris)

Abstract

Hummingbirds have the highest mass specific metabolism of any known vertebrate.These small birds arc also known lo fly extraordinary distances during migration. As a result ofthese pressures, hummingbirds require an incredible amount of energy. It is therefore imperativethat hummingbirds quickly learn and remember the locations of high energy food sources. Thepurpose of this study was to observe the learning period and spatial memory exhibited byRuby-throated Hummingbirds (Archilochus colubris). An additional objective was to identifyand understand the cues used by the birds to find the energetically rewarding feeders. It waspredicted that hummingbirds would primarily use spatial memory to find high-energy foodsources. The results suggest Ruby-throated Hummingbirds have a learning period of about onehour and that they may use multiple senses to efficiently find food sources.