One of the most common questions that gets asked is: What is the difference between a blue jay and a hummingbird? To the untrained eye, they can look quite similar. Both are beautiful, blue birds with long tails. However, there are some key differences that set them apart. Here’s a look at the blue jay vs the hummingbird.
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Blue Jay vs Hummingbird differences
There are many differences between blue jays and hummingbirds.
For one, blue jays are much larger than hummingbirds. They also have a different diet, with blue jays eating mostly insects and nuts, while hummingbirds feed on nectar.
Another difference is in their habitat. Blue jays are found in woods and forests, while hummingbirds are typically found in open areas with flowers. Finally, blue jays are known for their loud calls, while hummingbirds are known for their quiet, gentle songs.
What would kill a hummingbird?
There are many things that could kill a hummingbird. Some of the most common include predators, window strikes, and cold weather.
Predators such as cats, snakes, and spiders can kill hummingbirds if they are able to catch them. Window strikes are also a common cause of death for these small birds. They often mistake reflections in windows for another bird or flower and fly into the glass.
Cold weather can also be deadly for hummingbirds. They are very sensitive to temperature changes and can easily die from exposure to cold weather.
Are blue jays aggressive to hummingbirds?
It is not uncommon for blue jays to be aggressive towards hummingbirds. While the two species don’t usually share the same habitat, blue jays have been known to chase and even kill hummingbirds. This behavior is likely due to the fact that blue jays are territorial birds and see the smaller hummingbirds as a threat to their territory. While blue jays are not typically a danger to humans, it is important to be aware of their aggressive behavior towards other animals.
Do blue jays prey on other birds?
While blue jays are not known to be particularly aggressive birds, they have been known to prey on other smaller birds. In some cases, blue jays have been known to work together in groups to drive other birds away from food sources or nesting areas. While they typically eat insects and nuts, blue jays have been known to eat other small birds, eggs, and nestlings.
Do hummingbirds prey on other birds?
It’s a question that has long intrigued birdwatchers and ornithologists alike. The answer, it turns out, is both yes and no.
While hummingbirds are not known to actively hunt other birds, they will sometimes take advantage of an easy meal. This typically happens when a hummingbird comes across a nest with young birds that are not yet able to fly. The hummingbird will grab the bird and fly off with it, often killing it in the process.
While this behavior may seem cruel, it’s actually not that uncommon in the bird world. Many birds will opportunistically take advantage of an easy meal, and hummingbirds are no different. So, if you see a hummingbird carrying off a small bird, don’t be too alarmed—it’s just nature taking its course.
Read More – Blue jay vs blue bird
Conclusion
There are many differences between blue jays and hummingbirds, but one of the most striking is their size. Blue jays are much larger than hummingbirds, and their bills are also much longer.
Hummingbirds are able to fly much faster than blue jays, and they can hover in the air. Blue jays are not able to do this. Another difference is that blue jays are social birds, while hummingbirds are not. Blue jays live in flocks and often make loud noises, while hummingbirds are solitary birds that are very quiet.

Hi there! My name is Sarah, and I’m the author behind “Bird Sector,” a website dedicated to helping bird owners learn more about their pets and how to take good care of them. I’m passionate about birds and love sharing my knowledge and experiences with others.