The findings suggest that the male birds’ beak shape evolved in response to the birds’ competition for mates. Previous theories held that the birds’ beaks were an adaptation that allowed them to sip nectar from flowers. But now the evidence seems to suggest that the flowers evolved in response to the birds’ long beaks.

Dr. Alejandro Rico-Guevara of the University of Connecticut studied Long-billed Hermit hummingbirds in Costa Rica.  Adult male birds with the longest, sharpest beaks fared better in courtship rituals.  This is the first evidence that male/male combat might be playing a role in their evolution.  It was always felt that flowers and the hummingbird's beak evolved together.  At least in this species it may be that the flowers evolved to conform with the beak.