Climate change has significantly impacted the phenology of plant/pollinator mutualistic relationships, leading to a timing mismatch. While much research has focused on phenological mismatch, more fine-scale temporal changes may also impact pollinator foraging biology, and thus pollination success. In this study, we evaluate whether hummingbirds prefer to feed from sources with high-quality nectar to maximize energy versus a preference to perch while feeding to conserve energy when given the choice. I predict hummingbirds will display time minimizer behavior and perch to feed in higher temperatures to maintain temperature homeostasis and reduce heat production. Anna’s hummingbirds were subjected to an environment with a low-effort and high-effort feeder containing either a high or low sugar solution in two different temperatures. The hummingbirds displayed an inverse relationship between food consumption and feeding method, preferring to hover feed in high temperatures and perch feed in low temperatures, and demonstrating an energy budget plan of higher food consumption with an increased demand for rest at low temperatures, while consuming less and dedicating less energy towards rest at high temperatures. Based on this information, we can predict that Calypte annas may adapt well to extreme heat events associated with climate change due to their increased foraging efficiency at high temperatures.

I am an Undergraduate student at San Francisco State University interested in a career in conservation biology and animal welfare. My research is unpublished at this time, but I am analyzing data and plan to submit by the time of the presentation. I have presented this data before as is and continue to find it compelling. Aside from my research with hummingbirds, I have conducted field research in Costa Rica to look at the effect of climate change on the biodiversity of insects in different regions. I have a passion for wildlife and hope for this research to inspire future action towards conservation.