Amazing!

 I find these little birds so amazing.   Watching them flutter back and forth at the feeders is very entertaining.  

There are many varieties.   Here in Ohio we have three types.  They are the Ruby Throat, Calliope, and Rufous.   The ones that visit here are the Ruby Throat.   The above photo is the female...  

 

the one below a male. 

    I read that they actually use their tongue to lap up the nectar and not their beak.

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 Their natural predators are the bull frog, spider and praying mantis.

 

  When preparing for migration activity increases.  Much nourishment is needed for the long journey to Central America.    In fact it is important to keep the feeders hanging for two weeks after spotting the last one.  There may be those traveling from further north who may need to feed on their way south. 

 

Isn't it fascinating to think these tiny little ones will fly so far for the summer.  I am so glad they do.

Well it is time to go see a few more of their antics before climbing into bed.

Hope you have a wonderful evening.   

God Bless!

A tale that ended...

This is a tale that ended well.   It took place back in May.   The  humming birds had just recently arrived for their summer visit.

I had been busy moving pots of posies onto the deck.   Scooter (the devilish cat) was apparently busy as well.  He had something he was getting ready to eat.   When I went to rescue the victim I was horrified to see a small wing protruding from his mouth.  In picking up my devil cat I was able to get him to relinquish the tiny creature.   She fell to the ground on her side and just blinked an eye.    Scooter was immediately taken indoors and I returned to see if there was any hope.

Scooter (The little Devil)

My hubby came rushing to see why I was scurrying about.   He took charge of the situation and brought her some water and took down the feeder to see if she would take some nourishment.   She was sitting perched on my finger and seemed to be dazed.  There were no apparent wounds.  Gently I brushed her wings.  Unbelievable the small size of these birds.  Not any longer than my index finger.

We decided to take her up to the pussy willow bush which had branches in easy reach.   At first she would not perch on a limb.   Then suddenly her head started turning back and forth and a chirping sound began and she gently sailed to a twig above me.   As I reached up to touch her one more time she flitted higher and then flew away.

This tale certainly ended well!

For as you can see she now has a friend!

Hope I made you smile.

Until next time God Bless You all!

I'm Getting Ready...

Hummingbird delights

I am gearing up and getting ready.   My dad had one at the feeder this morning.   I am sure they will come - perhaps even tomorrow - I can't wait.   They seem to love the color red. I always plant scarlet begonias and impatiens in pots on the deck to attract them.  

They are truly a gift from God.  So tiny and sweet. Dad says they buzz his patio window when the feeder is empty.  They are letting him know it's time for a refill.  It is his job to keep food replenished.  Mom lets Dad have that duty and he takes it very seriously.

Hope I can catch one on film and share it.  Will keep you updated.

See You Soon
God Bless!