One of the greatest pleasures of summer is watching the hummingbirds at my feeder and around the yard. These are Ruby Throated Hummingbirds. They are a metallic green on top, and white underneath, with the male displaying a brilliant ruby throat patch. They are the only birds that can fly backwards, as well as hover in one spot. Many times, sitting outside, I've had them hover around me, especially if I'm wearing a brightly colored shirt. They also trust me enough now to land on the feeder right after I put more nectar out, even if I'm standing right by it. They are constantly in motion, flying from perch to perch, sometimes sitting at the highest peak of a nearby pine tree to survery their surroundings. They like to perch on my clothes line also, and check out the competition at the feeder. Sometimes I will get 3 or 4 of them flying around the feeder, looking like tiny fencers, lunging at one another with their long beaks. During courtship the female sits quietly on a perch while the male does a pendulum dance, swinging in a wide arc and buzzing loudly with each dip. I've witnessed this action many times, and it's such fun to watch.

Keep in mind as you view these photos, that I don't have an expensive camera, and these guys are quick, so some of the shots may be a little blurred. Also, for some reason I didn't get any females.

The Approach

Hovering, checking things out

Settling Down

Mmmm, that tastes good

Time To Go

Takeoff

Picture This

Sunrises

More Sunrises

Sunsets

Panoramas

Petal Power

More Petal Power

Furry and Feathered Forest Friends

More Furry and Feathered Forest Friends

Blooming Wild

Butterflies Are Free

Creepy Crawlies

Garden Party

Humming Along

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