Hummingbird in flight
Hummingbirds are tiny nectar-drinking birds found in the Americas from Alaska to Chile. The name refers to the humming sound made by the bird's rapidly beating wings. The jewel-like hummingbird plays an important role in the mythology and art of many Native American cultures.
The Hummingbird in Ancient Aztec Culture
In some cultures, the hummingbird is a sacred animal.
The Aztec God of War and the Sun was known as the Hummingbird Wizard. Aztecs believed that warriors who died in battle came back as hummingbirds.
Taino Indians and the Hummingbird
Purple-throated hummingbird
For the Taino Indians of Puerto Rico, the hummingbird is a sacred animal, honored for its role as pollinator and creator of new life.
Arawak Indians of Jamaica
Hummingbird with flowers
The swallow-tail hummingbird, also called the doctor bird, is the national bird of Jamaica. Jamaica's Arawak Indians believed hummingbirds were the spirits of the dead.
The Hummingbird in Hopi and Zuni Culture
Hopi and Zuni myths of the American Southwest tell the story of how the hummingbird brought rain from the gods to help humans. Potters often decorate water jugs with images of hummingbirds.
Haida and Hummngbirds
For the Haida Nation of the Northwest coast, the hummingbird, known as Sah Sen, is a symbol of good luck and joy.
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