Ornithophily is the pollination of flowers by birds. Plants pollinated by birds generally have flowers with extra sweet, highly concentrated nectar. The blossoms are typically red or orange and have a long tubular shape, which allows them to hold ample amounts of the sugary sweet nectar. Birds that pollinate flowers, hummingbirds for instance, often have long bills, brushy-tipped tongues, and are light enough to perch on the flower, or display a form of flying called swing hovering, which allows them to drink nectar while suspended mid-air.
Nearly 130 species of North American plants have evolved ornithophilous associations. Bee balm, salvia, and native honeysuckle are examples of plants that are pollinated by both insects and birds.
THE POLLINATOR GARDEN ~ Please join me Tuesday, January 26th at 7:30 pm at the North Shore Horticultural Society, American Legion Hall, 14 Church Street in Manchester.
I hope to see you there!
Photo: Male Allen’s Hummingbird and Aloe Blossom
Good Morning Gloucester 
Gorgeous photo Kim! Thank you for sharing your talent!
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Thank you so much Mary, very sweet of you to write.
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Great shot and background Kim Thanks!! 🙂 These hummer are a blast to watch mom had a feed in front yard and sat still they would swing on by 🙂 Dave & Kim 🙂
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