Hummingbirds

  

Hummingbird at feeder but defensive against an attacker

We had a big day last week that I forgot to record substantially. Up until this point it wasn't obvious whether this hummer was staying, or leaving. I am pretty sure that they return to former residences, so maybe this one is last years baby coming home. It is a romantic concept I can embrace.  I guess I thought it was a passing event, but now I know their presence is a sure thing. About a week ago, I noted while reading on my favorite nature website http://journeynorth.org/ that some eastern shore Marylanders were seeing hummingbirds. That made my blood perk! Its early, but it must be time to put out the feeders.

Watching hummers is one of my favorite stress reducers. They get so stressful about guarding their territory they make me forget the things I stress about. I make the investment in time and energy because it is a wonder and entertainment to accommodate the needs of these amazing little creatures. Out went the feeders and I swear it was just minutes before I had a customer.   It could have been a passing customer, so I had to watch for a several days to be sure it was a new resident. Now I know, it is a new resident and more than one for sure.

My first indication of a budding community was when I was taking my daily stroll through the gardens yesterday. I heard hummers babbling and laughing very clearly. Imagine the sound of a porpoise laugh, that is how the hummers sound, but much fainter and much higher, but distinct. No other critter makes this sound. All day yesterday I watched the feeders and there were many instances of hummingbirds feeding. I did not bother to note the markings to see if it was the same bird. This morning there was a dogfight at the feeder, and I knew I had a community developing. Such a joy to watch them dive, frolic and dine. I filmed some of the dogfight, so I will try to post it here, but it is not something I regularly do, posting may not go well. Enjoy, it is a hoot!