2009 Ruby-throated Hummingbirds Vol 3

It is time for a new thread on the Ruby-throated Hummingbirds and I hope by now everyone has some pics that they can contribute. The Hummers at our house were at full capacity a few weeks ago but have dwindled somewhat...my guess is due to the different flowers that are now in bloom. While sitting on the front porch with my company earlier this month the Hummers were especially active in the evening and we counted as many as 45-50 zooming in and out at the feeders. My company was in awe and I was so happy that they put on such a show for her!

As I said there aren't as many now but I have noticed them at the different blooms and hope to get some shots of them at some flowers when it quits raining and the sun returns. In the meantime here are a few using the perches I provide for them.

Almost forgot the link to the previous thread http://davesgarden.com/community/forums/t/978546/ and hope you will check it out!

This one cracked me up acting like a big bird!

edited for spelling!

This message was edited May 25, 2009 10:24 AM

Last one for now...the backside of an adult male!

Rose, I've only ever heard Hummingbirds on video footage and it's just wonderful. I can only imagine what 50 must sound and look like. Wonderful photos, as always.

Thanks Margaret! It looks and sounds like a swarm! Sometimes they make a funny little sound while speeding by and it reminds me of a race car...which is very appropriate as they are so very quick!! I especially enjoy it when they pause and flutter inches from my face...so curious and fearless!!

Nice poses of your Hummer, Rose. Thanks for the new thread.

This is, as many I'll get at the feeder at one time.

Love the background on these. It's the neighbor's roof.

Coming in for a landing.

Touch down, and a much deserved drink.

Great pics everyone!

Rose, Thanks for starting the new thread!

Are your perches just big sticks, Rose? I once saw at a nursery big sticks that were painted to match the urn they planted for someone. I was gonna do that to match my gardens but, well time always is my enemy. Your pictures are great.

Nice ones Burn and I like that background also...such a great color for the Hummers.

Lynn..Yes, the perches are just usually branches and twigs I stick close to the feeders hoping the birds will land there. Seems like they would rather land on the shepherds hook most of the time!!

Here is one of the little females from earlier today.

Such a cutie Rose!

Here's a shot of a female playing in the sprinkler! Not a very good picture, but had to post it anyway!

I've figured out that I cannot take an action shot of a hummingbird. They just turn out like a big blur! Here's one that's not moving!

Very nice pics Rose1656!

Rose1656, do you have a sport setting on your camera? That setting might help with moving objects. That's a lovely shot of your hummingbird.

Thanks Dellrose.

This is a favorite branch in my Mockorange, in the front yard. Time out to do some clean up.

This evening under my laundryroom window, he was on guard duty on the tomato cage.

No, I don't have that. I have played with the shutter speed, but all of our HB feeders are in the shade so doesn't work out so well. I'll just enjoy all of yours!


Rose1656

Very nice shots burn!

Still not much going on here...tho my neighbor reports that she has lots of hummers. Hmmm...I think I know where all mine are now!!!!

Anyhoo, just a couple of shots that I just lucky enough to get...

If I hadn't heard the chatter I would have missed this little guy!

Cute ones nanny!

A little female this afternoon.

And the male.

Nice Burn!

so jealous here!

me too.....

Very nice burn!

Thanks, I love these little guys. They are getting braver by the minute. This male was inches away from me the other day. Stayed for some time, just chatting away. I'm sure, if I had some sugar water in a cap in my hand, he would have landed to drink. When it gets to be sunny and warmer out, I will give it a try. We have had lots of wind and rain.

another shot of him.

aawwww

Good ones burn!!

He is adorable Burn!

Nice pics Burn!!

Gorgeous, Burn. I love the way their tiny little feet hang below them (wouldn't be above, would it now?). You know what I mean

I so enjoy your pics and conversations of these little guys. I have a question. I saw the hummers early in May here, but now I don't see them at all. I'm wondering what I am doing wrong.. feeders are as usual every year. Last year I didn't see the little buggers until August around here...Can anyone give me some answers?

Hi Floridares, There could be several reasons.If they are year round residents in Florida they might be going to a cooler area as it warms up down there.
They could be nesting and you wouldn't see them as often since they would mainly be eating protein (bugs).
If they are not year round they have migrated north to mate.

Do you have a lot of plants they enjoy?

This morning when I put the feeder out there were 2 males waiting for it!!

Got this fellow on the feeder yesterday

Shot #2