Why Do Hummingbirds Hover in Your Face? 4 Reasons for This Behavior

Last Updated on Jan 23 2023

Hummingbirds are a magical sight, which is why so many people put up hummingbird feeders. It’s so interesting to watch as their wings patter a million miles an hour while their bodies stay so still. If you’ve ever been close to where hummingbirds dwell, you might see them come up to meet your eyes.

So, what exactly are they trying to tell you? Have you upset them? Are they happy to see you? While one reason is super common, there are a few things they could be trying to say. Let’s get into it.

Hovering Hummingbirds: What Are They Trying to Say?

Meeting a hummingbird face to face can be a little intimidating since they are so fast and buzz so loudly. Here’s what their up-close-and-personal greeting may be trying to communicate:

1. Curiosity

These hummingbirds might be just as intrigued in you as you are in them. If you are nearby where they’re hanging out, they might come up to inspect you. This is not an act of aggression, it is simply to learn more about this strange creature in front of them.

2. Territorial

It’s infrequent that hummingbirds would ever be aggressive toward people. However, they might be irritated with another unfamiliar bird hanging around. After all, they want all the goods for themselves. So, if you see more than one bird flying around, they might be a bit more frantic than usual and less worried about getting close to you.

• Read more: Are Hummingbirds Territorial? Why Do They Fight So Much?

3. Colors

Are you wearing bright colors when you feed your birds? Hummingbirds are very attracted to bright colors, in fact, red is a hugely popular choice for attracting them to a feeder. So, if you are wearing vibrant colors, you might be alluring to them at that moment.

4. Hunger

If you have some spoiled hummingbirds that you feed regularly, they might be giving you a friendly reminder that they need some more sweet nectar water. If they grow accustomed to you feeding them, they won’t want that to stop—so don’t be surprised if you get hassled.

Incredible Hummingbird Facts

If you love hummingbirds, or you’re just interested in these exceptional, mysterious beauties, here are some facts you might not know.

In Conclusion

So, if you see a hummingbird come up to meet your face, you can pretty much guarantee it’s a friendly hello—or they’re requesting a feeder refill. Unless the hummingbird seems agitated for another reason, they’re likely not upset or acting territorial.

Even if the hummingbird is upset, it is probably due to another hummingbird hanging around—as they don’t view humans as adversaries.

Featured Image Credit: Ercan Uc, Shutterstock