The hummingbird is a fascinating and beautiful creature. It is the smallest bird species in the world, but it is rich in symbolism, often associated with beauty, good luck, strength, resilience, and hard work. The tiny bird has importance in various cultures, including the ancient Aztec civilizations, where it was a symbol of rebirth. They believed that fallen warriors would be reincarnated as hummingbirds. The great thing about this animal is that it can be recreated in various styles and techniques, including American traditional and watercolor. You can keep it simple, opting for just black ink, or get something more detailed and colorful. Smaller pieces are just as meaningful as larger designs, and you can incorporate other images, including flowers and insects. If you are looking for inspiration for your next men’s tattoo or women’s tattoo design, keep reading to find out all the wonderful ways you can get inked with a hummingbird.
1. Small Hummingbird Tattoo
The hummingbird is the smallest bird species in the world, and thus it is the perfect choice for someone who wants a small tattoo. Tiny ink is incredibly popular because of its versatility, it can be tattooed anywhere on your body, and you are not restricted with placement options. It can also be easily covered by clothing and can look dainty and cute. You can choose to keep it simple, opt for just black ink, or get something more detailed and colorful. Smaller pieces are also just as meaningful as larger designs, and the hummingbird is symbolic of several things, including hard work, resilience, hope, and joy.
2. Simple Hummingbird Tattoo
If you are the type of person who has a more minimalistic approach to life and prefers body art that is meaningful yet uncomplicated, then a simple tattoo is an excellent choice for you. These pieces are usually stripped-back designs that are created using simple lines and black ink. This is perfect for someone who prefers a more laid-back approach to life, but these inkings will also be faster to complete because of the lack of detail and shading. They are often much cheaper as they are not time-consuming. Hummingbirds are stunning and symbolic creatures, and they lend themselves well to this style of artwork.
3. Watercolor Hummingbird Tattoo
A watercolor hummingbird tattoo is for someone who wants to make a statement. The style looks as though someone has taken a paintbrush to your skin, and the bold hues are blended to mimic the way paint would look on a canvas. There are few dark foundation shades used and little linework. The downside to this beautiful approach is that they tend to fade faster than regular ink, and it often costs more. The watercolor tattoo technique is so colorful and bright that it demands attention, and your piece is bound to get noticed, so it makes sense to get tattooed with something meaningful. The hummingbird is a symbol of hard work, strength, resilience, and good luck. It is an excellent choice for someone who values these qualities, who wants to remind themselves never to give up, or that they are capable of conquering whatever life throws their way.
4. Hummingbird Rose Flower Tattoo
If you are overcoming a struggle, then the hummingbird can symbolize hope; it also represents dedication, good luck, and joy, which is why this little creature inspires so many people. The bird can be combined with various other images to take on even more meaning, and a hummingbird and rose tattoo is a beautiful and symbolic choice. The bloom is one of the most popular choices for body art because they are visually appealing, versatile, and filled with symbolism. It is connected to balance, beauty, pain, love, and passion and can be created in a range of different styles and techniques. You may wish to have your hummingbird hovering over the rose and celebrating the mutualistic relationship between these living things. You could also use this as an opportunity to honor those in your life which you rely on.
5. Sunflower Hummingbird Tattoo
Both the sunflower and hummingbird are seen as symbols of joy and good luck, so what better way to enforce this message than by combining them? The sunflower is often associated with optimism and happiness and serves as a reminder to look at the bright side. The bird, on the other hand, also represents positive thinking. A sunflower and hummingbird tattoo is a striking choice, and this is a wonderful opportunity to opt for bright, colorful ink. That said, your design can work just as well in blank ink if you prefer to focus on the symbolism behind your images. Try out various techniques, from realistic to watercolor paintings, and pick a placement you can look at every day.
6. Hummingbird Lily Tattoo
It is a popular choice to combine a hummingbird with flowers because of the mutualistic relationship between them. But it also makes for a bright and interesting design, and a hummingbird and lily tattoo is filled with symbolism. The lily is associated with rebirth, motherhood, strength, and purity and is a popular choice for someone who values these things. It can also represent a deviation from your faith. When inked with the bird, it takes on even more meaning, as this tiny creature is a symbol of hard work, resilience, determination, and optimism. If you are opting for a style that includes a lot of detail, remember to pick a large enough placement to allow for this. The forearm, thigh, or shoulder are great options.
7. Memorial Hummingbird Tattoo
The beauty of body art is that it can be used to express your feelings and honor the important people in your life. A memorial hummingbird tattoo celebrates someone you love who has passed, and it is a beautiful way to show that they had great strength or that they had filled your life with joy. It could also be something as simple as the bird was their favorite. When deciding on a memorial piece, many people choose to add names and the birth and death dates of the loved one who they have lost. You may also wish to include a meaningful quote or phrase. When deciding on your placement, because this is a piece with so much symbolism, it is essential that you ink it somewhere you can see every day. this will remind you of the reason you got it done in the first place.
8. Hummingbird Outline Tattoo
Some body art techniques are intricate and detailed, and others are simple and focus on the basics of the image, such as a hummingbird outline tattoo. As the name suggests, this piece only involves the most fundamental elements of the design; the form, without any shading or extra detail. Outline pieces are often created in black ink and will be faster to complete than pieces that require a lot of shading. It may also be much cheaper because it will be less time-consuming to complete. For an individual who has a more minimalistic approach to life, this is a perfect choice!
9. Traditional Hummingbird Tattoo
There are many different techniques to choose from when getting body art, including the traditional approach. The American Traditional tattoo style is defined by its heavy black outlines and bright yet limited color palette of red, green, yellow, and blue. These pieces have a very distinct look and are great for images that you want to stand out. They usually involve limited subject matter, such as nautical-inspired artwork or animal and bird designs, and a traditional hummingbird tattoo is a striking choice for both men and women. The symbolism associated with the bird, coupled with the interesting technique, makes this an unforgettable and meaningful combination.
10. Colorful Hummingbird Tattoo
Deciding whether to get black or colored ink largely depends on your chosen design, but there is a lot to say about a colorful hummingbird tattoo. One of the reasons this bird looks so fantastic in bright hues is because this makes your piece more realistic and adds to the detail. You can also include other images, like flowers or insects, like dragonflies and butterflies. Color makes your tattoo more visible and, therefore, can make more of a statement, but there are also some downsides. Colored inks tend to cost more than black inks, and lighter colors will often fade faster.
11. Black and White Hummingbird Tattoo
If you want body art that is simple yet striking, then opting for a black and white tattoo is a great choice. Black ink is commonly used, and most pieces will be in varying shades of black and gray shading. It can work with many different images, quotes, or symbols and makes a statement without necessarily being in your face. However, if you want something different though, you may want to include white ink into your piece. It is fantastic for adding detail to hummingbirds’ feathers and can make your artwork truly remarkable. That said, it is one of the quickest colors to fade.
12. Aztec Hummingbird Tattoo
The ancient Aztec civilization and the symbolism associated with aspects of it continue to be a source of interest and inspiration to many. The hummingbird was believed to be a symbol of rebirth; dead warriors were reincarnated as these little birds. It is also reported that the Aztec sun and war god was represented as an eagle or hummingbird in the works of art. Your chosen Aztec tattoo design will likely be detailed and rich in symbolism; you can choose to get it inked in black or colored ink.
13. Hummingbird Hibiscus tattoo
Birds and flowers make for a pretty and meaningful inking, but few have the same impact as a hummingbird and hibiscus tattoo. The hummingbird may be tiny, but it is dedicated and strong. It can represent your desire to overcome struggles and be seen as a symbol of joy and determination. The hibiscus is often associated with vacation, summer, and the state of Hawaii. The bloom also has a slightly different meaning depending on its color. For example, a red hibiscus will represent love and passion, while a blue one is associated with tranquility. Yellow is connected to luck and optimism. Think about the meaning you wish to convey when deciding on your design and the shades you intend to use.
14. Realistic Hummingbird Tattoo
The skill involved in creating a realistic hummingbird tattoo is impressive. This artwork looks just like a photograph, and the image comes to life on your skin. The amount of precision and detail that this technique requires means that it is a time-consuming and costly choice, but it is also stunning. It will have people doing a double-take. When deciding on a placement, choose somewhere large enough to allow for the detail these pieces require. Also, be aware that this style will likely take longer to complete than standard designs; you may wish to pick an area with thick skin, muscle, and fewer nerve endings, like the forearm or thigh, to reduce the overall discomfort.
15. 3D Hummingbird Tattoo
3D tattoos are enjoying their moment in the limelight because these designs are so cool. The extra dimension gives your image depth, which creates an interesting illusion. Your chosen image can look as though it is within your skin or hovering just above it. Your subject matter can make for a fearsome appearance, or you can choose something pretty and symbolic, like a 3D hummingbird tattoo. There is no easier way to make a statement. Still, this technique is incredibly specialized, and you need to find a tattoo artist who has an extensive portfolio to avoid disappointment. You can expect your body art to be more pricey and time-consuming to complete. That said, the results are worth it.
16. Hummingbird Butterfly Tattoo
If you love bold and colorful designs, then a hummingbird and butterfly tattoo is the one for you. The hummingbird is associated with joy, good luck, hard work, and hope. In contrast, the butterfly represents beauty, femininity, and transition. It is often chosen by someone who has overcome a difficult period in their life. Or by an individual who wishes to remind themselves that there are good things to come. The combination of these two creatures takes on even more meaning, making for a powerful piece.
17. Infinity Hummingbird Tattoo
The infinity tattoo symbol, which looks like the number eight turned onto its side, is associated with eternity, and this is often interpreted as everlasting love and commitment. It is a popular image to get inked to honor your relationship or to represent timelessness. Still, it can become even more meaningful when combined with other images, for example, an infinity hummingbird tattoo. The bird is associated with many things, including beauty, good luck, strength, resilience, hard work, and the spirits. Not only does it add to the meaning of your piece, but it also makes it visually interesting. Opt for black ink because the design is so simple. Although you can choose any size for your body art, it is best to keep this one small.
18. Jamaican Hummingbird Tattoo
The hummingbird has inspired many people with its strength and determination, but it is extra special for Jamaicans because it is their national animal. The doctor bird, or swallowtail hummingbird, lives only in Jamaica, and some believe it to have magical properties. Named this way because of the male’s feathers, which can look like an old-fashioned doctor’s coat. The bird is bright and would look great inked in color. For some, it can bring good luck and hope, but getting inked with this bird is also an excellent way to celebrate your Jamaican pride or heritage.
19. Two Hummingbirds Tattoo
Depending on the placement of your two hummingbirds, it can take on various meanings. If they are far apart, it could represent distance, the desire to be with someone far away or no longer living. If they are close together, then this could celebrate the closeness you share with someone or could be a way to honor your relationship. This is a lovely choice for someone who is in a loving and committed relationship; you could both get matching ink, or each bird could represent one part of the couple. You may also want to add names, special dates, and symbols to make the piece even more unique.
20. Three Hummingbirds Tattoo
Deciding on a three hummingbirds tattoo can be a compelling and symbolic choice. The number three is significant to many people, representing the beginning, middle, and end. It can represent the body, soul, and spirit, or of the heavens and earth. Three birds can also be associated with freedom, joy, and overcoming hard times. The great thing is that there are so many ways to interpret the meaning and different design options. You may want to show your hummingbirds in flight or one above each other. Or perhaps you want to get creative and combine them into a symbol.
21. Blue Hummingbird Tattoo
Not only does the hummingbird represent many things and holds importance to various cultures, but it also comes in different colors. There are several species of tiny creatures, many of whom have bright plumage, including the blue hummingbird. They have glossy feathers, which can take on different colors depending on the angle of illumination. You can choose to get an inking that is simple and created in one shade of blue or combine several. Hyper-realistic and 3D techniques are also an opportunity to bring these birds to life on your skin, fully showing off their beauty and detail.
22. Purple Hummingbird Tattoo
The beauty of the hummingbird is that there are so many different species to choose from, so you can pick your favorite. They can also be exceptionally brightly colored, and a purple hummingbird tattoo is an eye-catching and interesting option. Colored ink tends to be more expensive, but the results are magnificent. Purple is a shade that works for all skin tones, depending on your chosen shade. It is also a hue associated with luxury, power, and royalty, so there is a lot of symbolism that comes with a purple inking.
23. Dragonfly Hummingbird Tattoo
When deciding on a hummingbird inking, you may wish to incorporate other images into your design. Popular choices would be flowers or insects, for example, a dragonfly and hummingbird tattoo. The dragonfly is connected with strength, luck, harmony, and prosperity, while the tiny bird has similar symbolism, often associated with optimism, positivity, and hard work. Both animals can be created in different styles and techniques and can be inked small or large.
24. Heart Hummingbird Tattoo
The heart is a universal symbol of love and passion. There are many variations of heart tattoos, including a hummingbird and a heart tattoo. You could make the heart inside the bird or make it separate, depending on your preference. Your choice of color can also influence its meaning; red is connected with romance, while black can represent grief or loss and could be tattooed as a part of a memorial piece. If you are drawn to these two symbols, experiment with placements and designs to create something special and unique to you.
25. Hummingbird Circle Tattoo
There are many ways to create a hummingbird and circle tattoo. It could be flying through the circle, or you could create a geometric tattoo design that creatively incorporates these two elements. The symbolism of this shape is that it represents wholeness and perfection. It can be seen as eternity and timelessness, and despite its simplicity can make a significant impact. The hummingbird is often connected with resilience and the ability to overcome hardships and struggles. It is also a symbol of hard work, love, joy, and hope.
Hummingbird Tattoo Meaning
The hummingbird means many things to different people and cultures. It has importance to Native American peoples and was a symbol of rebirth to the ancient Aztec civilization. To others, these tiny creatures can represent hard work, dedication, resilience, and determination. They are also a symbol of hope, good luck, and optimism. This is the perfect choice for someone who has overcome a difficult period in their life or wants to remind themselves to stay strong, no matter what life throws at them.
Hummingbird Tattoo FAQs
Where do you put a hummingbird tattoo?
Where you put a hummingbird tattoo is dependent on several factors. These include how big your design is if you want to pick an area that you can see often, and the level of pain involved. Some spots, like the wrist, are great for visibility, and this is perfect for a piece that you want to see every day. Others, like the forearm or the thigh, are good choices because they are considered low on the pain scale. If you want something extensive, then the back or chest are top picks. An image of a hummingbird can be created in many different styles and sizes, so pick the spot that appeals to you most and works well with your chosen design.
Are hummingbird tattoos common?
Hummingbirds are a popular tattoo choice because they are beautiful and rich in symbolism. That said because there are so many different interpretations and techniques that they can be created in, each piece feels special and unique. You can make them big, colorful, and extremely detailed, or opt for something small and simple, like an outline design. The hummingbird is symbolic of several things, including hard work, resilience, hope, and joy, and individuals who are drawn to these qualities will want to get inked with an image of this tiny bird. Others may admire its beauty or view the hummingbird as their favorite animal.
What do hummingbirds symbolize?
The hummingbird represents many things; these include determination, hard work, optimism, and joy. The meaning of your chosen design can be changed slightly if you choose to add other images to it, for example, insects and flowers. The butterfly represents beauty, change, and transformation, while a rose is connected to the balance of beauty and pain and is associated with passion and love.
Cailyn Cox holds a degree in journalism and has been working with The Trend Spotter as a writer for over ten years. She has worked with some of the most prestigious women’s and men's lifestyle publications. For her, writing is not just a job; it’s a passion, which is why each article she writes is approached with such enthusiasm and dedication. She has extensive knowledge of hairstyles, tattoos, and beauty and has made a career out of creating informative articles that appeal to women and men of all ages.
SUBSCRIBE TO OUR NEWSLETTER
Subscribe to our mailing list and get interesting stuff and updates to your email inbox.