The only bird that can fly backwards for a significant amount of time is the hummingbird. This unique ability is due to the structure of their wings, which have a ball and socket joint (rotator cuff) that allows for a greater range of movement. Hummingbirds can also fly upside down and hover in mid-air, thanks to their specialized wing structure and muscle control. Other bird species, such as herons, egrets, flycatchers, and warblers, can flutter backwards for a short distance as a defensive strategy, but they cannot sustain backward flight like hummingbirds.