Part of the problem is probably that although modern cameras are fast, the camera operator is not fast enough to focus, track and shoot such an object.
The shots of hummingbirds, etc. happen because the camera is set up on a flower and the birds hovers for a brief time in focus.
I think the rod-like shape is probably a blurring of the insect/weird beastie/vanguard of alien fleet out to suck all our brains out. (Delete as appropriate to your own belief.) In all the films, the rods are caught flashing about, but never close enough to get a clear shot. Personally, I would like to go to one of these locations with a big, kevlar weave net and try and catch one. Catch one, get some good close-up shots of whatever it is and then sell the rights to some american network show with wads of cash.
Personally, I think that if it is real, it's an insect of some sort.