Nature’s creations not only have distinct features but also spectacular colours. An example of this is the Anna’s hummingbirds which are known for their striking hues. What makes them magnificent to observe is the change in their colours when seen from varied angles as shown in a video posted on Twitter by Wonder of Science.
Video:
The stunning colors of the Anna's hummingbird are iridescence caused by light scattering from nanoscale structures within their feathers.pic.twitter.com/BZzXuFnHag
— Wonder of Science (@wonderofscience) July 21, 2022
The thumb-sized bird displays shades of fluorescent reddish-pink and black as it changes the angle.
Hummingbirds according to Science Daily have the brightest colours in the world. The shade change occurs as their feathers reflect light in a way that the birds can match. The pancake-shaped structures in their feathers result in reflection of rainbow colours when they turn their head.
Viewers were captivated with the footage. One remarked: “Ok, this beautiful thing made my day,” while another said the bird looked like an “upgraded version of chameleon.”