Ruby-throated hummingbirds are the only hummingbirds that breed in the eastern part of the US, although a couple other species occasionally stray east. And, they are fun birds to watch, as they are incredibly active, something they are famous for. They do actually sit still at times, but unless you see one actually land, they are almost impossible to spot when perched.
That is, other than at feeders. They love sugar water and there are quite a number of feeder styles out there that cater to their feeding style. Their long beak is brilliant at getting down into flowers to reach the nectar, and they have a long tongue to lick it up, so these feeders mimic the flowers. Side note: They will also eat small insects, an adaptation that allows for survival when their are few flowers blooming such as after a big weather event like a hurricane.
Today I spent 30 minutes in a small garden in Troutville, Virginia, with lots of flowers and hummingbird feeders. And here are the pics.
That is, other than at feeders. They love sugar water and there are quite a number of feeder styles out there that cater to their feeding style. Their long beak is brilliant at getting down into flowers to reach the nectar, and they have a long tongue to lick it up, so these feeders mimic the flowers. Side note: They will also eat small insects, an adaptation that allows for survival when their are few flowers blooming such as after a big weather event like a hurricane.
Today I spent 30 minutes in a small garden in Troutville, Virginia, with lots of flowers and hummingbird feeders. And here are the pics.
A male, with the red throat, which sadly doesn't show up in this pic
These birds seem to fight endlessly, but exactly what the trouble is here I don't know
Ruby-thoated hummingbird on a feeder
Ruby-throated hummingbird feeding on a flower.
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