The ruby-throated humming bird beats its wings 53 times per second. Because of this speed, they appear to be able to hover in the air.
Hummingbirds get their name from the humming sound that their wings make when they are flapping. They move so quickly that each individual flap is not distinguishable. Instead, a steady hum is heard, similar to an insect.
They live on the nectar of flowers. If you want to see them in your own backyard, it is best to get a feeder and fill it with a mixture of sugar and water and dye it red. The sugar water resembles the nectar they drink in the wild. The red color is easily noticeable and draws them to the food source. When the drink, they do not land, but hover in front of the feeder or flower.