Encephalization in hummingbirds (Trochilidae)

The brain mass in 23 hummingbird species was compared to that in galliform birds taking body mass into consideration. Hummingbird brain masses were determined by endocranial volumes, and their body masses were calculated from skeletal measurements. Galliform data were taken from a recent publication. Hummingbirds have brains that are approximately 2.5 times larger than those of galliform birds. Such encephalization may be due to (1) an enlargement of the telencephalon, or (2) an enlargement of functionally well-defined extratelencephalic brain parts. Based on the extremely specialized feeding behavior of the nectarivorous hummingbirds and the neurological demands associated with sucking nectar during hovering, the second hypothesis is better supported, but further studies are needed.