I am willing to accept that this small bird beats its wings 70 times per second while in flight; actually, it is more that I accept that someone somehow somewhere measured the wings beating and came up with this figure; but I can't say I really believe it. I can only count to seven in a second, for goodness sake, and that is counting really fast!
However, I challenge the statement that hummingbirds do not need a perch on a freeder as they eat while on the wing. Maybe they do not need a perch but I feel they appreciate one when it is provided. And maybe they benefit from perches. Think of all the energy saved; wing beats per second is impressive no matter what the number! (Hmmm, wonder if any flowers have a natural perch. And if so has anyone studied hummers' preference for such.)
This is the first feeder I have had with a perch. This is the first time I have been able to watch a hummingbird eating while not whirling its wings.
It sits. It looks around. It takes a drink or two. It stares off into the distance. Takes a long drink. Catches sight of me. Tilts its head. Eats a bit more. Shimmers in the sun.
I plan to only have feeders with perches from now on.