Hummer sits on branch next to feeder morning until night, daily

Question

Why does hummingbird sit on tree branch 10 hours a day, near the feeder where he drinks frequently. He chases other hummingbirds away.

Answer 1

Hi Victoria H.,

He (or she, have you speciated /sexed yet?) is defending feeding territory, and possibly later nesting territory as well. Sitting expends less energy than flying, especially for a bird which lives on the edge of survival.

You, inside your house, are similarly defending feeding, shelter, and possibly also Instagram-playing territory.

-- Cheers, -- Mr. d.