Hummingbird Ownership in the USA: Laws, Care & Facts.

Hummingbirds are among the most fascinating birds, known for their rapid wing movements, dazzling colors, and ability to hover in mid-air.

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While many bird lovers admire these tiny creatures, some wonder if they can keep a hummingbird as a pet in the USA.

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Is It Legal to Own a Hummingbird? In the United States, keeping a hummingbird as a pet is illegal under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA).

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This law protects native birds, including hummingbirds, from being captured, owned, or sold. Violating this law can result in heavy fines or even jail time.

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Hummingbirds are meant to thrive in the wild, where they can migrate, feed on nectar, and play a vital role in pollination.

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How to Care for Hummingbirds Without Owning Them Though you can’t keep a hummingbird as a pet, you can still attract them to your backyard by: Setting up a hummingbird feeder with a sugar-water solution.

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Planting nectar-rich flowers like trumpet vines and bee balm. Providing a safe environment free from predators and pesticides.

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Fascinating Hummingbird Facts They flap their wings up to 80 times per second. Some species migrate thousands of miles each year. Their heart rate can reach over 1,200 beats per minute!

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While owning a hummingbird is not an option, you can still enjoy their beauty by creating a hummingbird-friendly habitat in your backyard.

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