Well, I certainly learned about hummingbirds today.
Thanks.
Those lovelies that hover in front of my office window will soon be gone. In fact, I haven't seen them lately.
Mike, I don't think anyone has as many hummingbirds as Colorado...don't know why...but I used to have tons around when I lived in the mountains outside of Gunnison. But, funny, most of them disappeared in August with the arrival of the very agressive "Rufus"....they are very beautiful, but really combative also!
Hi Tera and Lenn. It seems early, yet, but I suppose some of them may be starting the southward trek.
I also put out two hummingbird feeders. Our nights have been getting cooler...especially with all the rain we've had. I know the little hummers appreciate the sweet drink first thing in the morning. This year I've been lax in keeping them full, but once I do get them full the hoards come back.
Mike,
I'm down here on the upper Mobile Bay Estuary in Baldwin County Alabama. I guess -- though don't know for sure -- we're one of the last stops for hummers on their way across the Gulf. I put my feeders out in mid-July, when a few start showing up. Today, there's been battle after aerial battle in the as they butt one another in mid-air for sipping rights. They'll even buzz me on occasion. But what a wonder to watch!
That's a fascinating lesson on Hummingbirds, Mike! And the picture is stunning! I see wonderful things in my yard all the time, but can't seem to move fast enough to capture them to pixels.
Deborah - I've heard that the Rufus can be a real bully.
Susan - thank you very much!
Debbie - It sure doesn't take them long to find the food when it's available!
Janet - They really are a lot of fun and useful, too - I just discovered that spiders are a part of their regular diet.
Hi Myrl - These guys don't sit still for long but I got lucky with that one!
Tony and Darcy - Thanks and yes they are!
Awesome photo, Mike! I really like how you captured the jewel-like tones, and the contrast with red and blue is perfect. I love watching these guys hover and dart from place to place.
Thanks John. I know, these little fellas can keep you entertained for hours!
Great post! Beautiful picture! That's very true about Hummingbirds!
Thanks for sharing,
Adam
Very nice photo...I've encountered many hummingbirds on my bicycle rides. They seem to be attracted to my yellow helmet. Many times they fly right up in front of my face.
I've even had the little hummers fly up to me, because of my scent or the shirt I'm wearing. Is there anything to the truth that we are hurting them by feeding them?
Adam - Thanks for visiting and joining the conversation.
John - Thank you. Bright colors do seem to attract them and they don't seem particularly afraid of people.
Debbie - From everything I've read, it doesn't hurt them IF: You feed the right proportion of sugar to water, white sugar only, and no food coloring.
Hey Mike,
Nice change of pace for postings. Here in Illinois I planted Cannas in several location of the yard. The main attractant for the hummingbirds. Cannas are a zone 10 plant so every fall I dig them up and replant in the spring, and wait for the hummers return. Great sight to see.
Hi Carol - thank you very much!
Thomas, I appreciate that. I'm not familiar with Cannas but will certainly check them out - these little guys are going through sugar faster than I can buy it! :-)
Mike - I love the shot. We always had a feeder in Canada but I don't think we have too many beachside in Florida. Maybe we'll try it and see.
Mike, cute post, hummingbirds fascinate me too but I haven't put out any feeders yet. I guess I shall wait until the spring; that is, if they don't get too fond of the tacos!