Photograph of World’s Smallest Bird Zunzuncito: Fact Check

Story:

This is the World’s Smallest Bird Zunzuncito

Other Versions

The Zunzuncito is the smallest bird in the world. It is also called fly bird, elf or bee bird.

Fact Check:

A photograph and message are doing rounds online since many years alleging to show the World’s Smallest Bird Zunzuncito. It appears to show a very tiny bird sitting on index finger of a human being. Accompanying message also claims the bird has other names like fly bird, elf or bee bird. The claims as such are mixture of hoax and facts explained here.

About the World’s Smallest Bird Zunzuncito

According to Guinness World Records, the smallest bird is the Bee Hummingbird (Mellisuga helenae) of Cuba and the Isle of Youth. It has other names like Zunzuncito or Helena hummingbird. The male birds measure 57 mm (2.24 in) in total length, half of which is taken up by the bill and tail. They weigh just around 1.6 g (0.056 oz). This is believed to be the lowest weight limit for any warm blooded animal. Female birds on the other hand are slightly larger.

The petite hummingbird is of the size of a large bee, so small they have to compete with some insects for food. They carry bright plumage, looking like a tiny jewel and beautiful to watch. Like all hummingbirds, Bee Hummingbird is a swift and strong flier. Although not quite visible because of their small size, they play an important role in plant reproduction helping in carrying pollen from flower to flower while feeding.

About the Photograph

Coming to the photograph in question, it does not show any real bird. It is in fact a miniature Doll figurine from artists Malinik Miniatures. Like mentioned on their Facebook page, Malinik Miniatures make handmade miniature realistic OOAK birds and animals. They use polymer clay and wire in the making and then cover with feathers or fibers. You can see some other figurines of birds below.

Referring to the photograph in circulation alleging to show World’s Smallest Bird Zunzuncito, Malinik Miniatures said someone stole their picture and published it with the false story.

So, the photograph does not show a real bird. However, Zunzuncito or Bee Hummingbird is in fact the world’s smallest bird. Unfortunately, population of the small and beautiful birds is declining due to deforestation and habitat loss.

Hoax or Fact:

Mixture of Hoax and Facts.