Why are hummingbirds so appealing to us? Is it because their diminutive stature belies their territorial demeanor? Or could it be their iridescent, bejeweled feathers that beguile us? Or their astonishing acrobatics, such as the unique ability to fly backwards? No matter the reason, most of us have a soft spot for these fierce fliers that migrate thousands of miles yearly and serve as important pollinators.