And what hummingbirds may lack in size, they make up for in tenacity, she explains, noting that these birds are fierce and known to attack intruders with their long, pointy beaks and fast-beating wings. They can even drive away much larger birds, and because of this, “they were once honored in both myth and history as courageous and lively warriors,” she tells mbg. Before we break down a few more specific meanings behind this animal, it’s worth noting that you should always take your personal associations with any animal into account when trying to interpret its message for you. Additionally, Baumann Brunke notes that there is some nuance between different hummingbird species. “There are over 300 different species of hummingbird in our world, and each carries its own special ‘medicine’ or teaching. So, too—each color, shape, habitat, and other characteristics of hummingbirds may offer a more specific and unique message,” she explains. That said, here are three common messages from this bird when you see it. “Dreams are much more personal than we realize, in which case, the symbol is supposed to get us to look at what is going on in our life and ask ourselves if it mirrors what happened in our lives the last time we experienced that animal in the aforementioned fashion,” Van notes, adding, “If so, what issues from that time might still need to be resolved?” Baumann Brunke echoes this point, noting it’s important to take into account how you felt in the dream and what the hummingbird was doing. “Every dream is unique so it’s hard to give generalizations, but if I was dreaming of hummingbirds I’d begin to learn about them,” she says, adding, “My main advice is to take some time to deepen and meditate on the hummingbirds in your dreams and ask yourself, What do I need to know here?” For more information on dream interpretation, be sure to check out our full guide. As you learn more about these amazing miniature creatures, you can gain an appreciation for their unique skills (i.e., hovering and flying forward, sideways, backward, and even upside down). These birds are all about inspiration to do the impossible, so if nothing else, allow yourself to be inspired! Baumann Brunke also tells mbg to reflect on the moments you’ve seen hummingbirds and what those moments have conveyed to you. “What is your feeling? Is there a certain time or place when you see the hummingbirds? By being a detective you can look for patterns and themes and thus begin to discover the deeper meaning of what [the] hummingbird is attempting to share with you,” she says.
