Bird Watching: 2014 Ruby-Throat Hummingbird Migration, 2 by ottahand7

ottahand7 wrote:
I finally had the first female hummingbid at our feeder 2 days ago. That makes about 3 males and 1 female here. Last year they were uncountable.

There are no butterflies to speak of here. 2 different Monarchs - 1 Cabbage White 1 Clouded Sulphur 1 Milbert's Tortoishell, a couple of Canadian Swallowtails in early June, many Admirals. Noticibly absent are Skippers of all kinds, and Fritillaries. Also no large bees and about 1/2 of the usual small bees. The 37 below temps several times in the winter have taken their toll I am afraid. Usually every dung pile and puddle in the road to our cabin is loaded with puddling Crescents and Satyrs. Virtually nil this year. I sure hope it turns around next year.

Good news is that the loons on the lake have had a chick this year. That is the first time in about 5 years. Now if the eagles can stay away.

Scarletbean - I agree about the Monarda - here are photos from last year. The Monarda hasn't even bloomed yet here - in fact I have a Blenheim Royal iris that has a bud for my final TBI on or around July 15th. What a year!