(4) Hummingbirds are tiny birds that feed on nectar from flowering plants also known as and (5) small , which includes most insects.

They get nectar from many plants, but in the desert, they especially enjoy the nectar from the bright red bloom of the ocotillo because it is one of the first blooming plants of spring. Cross-pollination is ensured when the hummingbird extracts the nectar from the blooming flower of the ocotillo.

(6) This method of offers a mutualistic relationship for both organisms. The ocotillo can successfully reproduce and the hummingbird is provided with a nutritious food source.

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