As the day was sunny and warm, I spent a long time outside "watching for moments" to photograph. My little hummer was a bit illusive, until I came inside of course! The light was getting low, and the feeder is in the shaded area, so I upped the ISO and crossed my fingers. I've got all spring to work on this as we've had hummers for a number of years, and the male was there, later, as well.
We believe that our hummers are of the Rufus variety. I just read that they weigh 3 grams and the oldest in captivity (zoo aviary, I suspect) was 8 years, 1 month.
That little "thread" at the end of her beak is her tongue!
Perfectly caught Louise! His body is sharp and his wings fluttering so you see the movement! How lovely to have such a little beauty in your garden! Fav '
@gaylewood Do you get a lot of them in your garden, Gayle? We never have more than two at a time that I've ever seen. Once she's on the nest, the male moves on, but if I can find the nest, I love watching the babies grow!
@pamknowler Thanks, Pam. In better lighting, I'd like to do better, but I'd been watching for her all day, and when she finally showed up, I had to give it a try! (I should have one camera set to use if and when she shows up. Speed is a must! While waiting, I get very distracted and photograph every other sort of thing, and then I'm not ready when the moment arrives! I need "A Hummingbird Camera"!
@pyrrhula Hi Ferry! I'm at the computer! Just a short time ago I got more photos of the hummingbird at the feeder...better light and clarity! I'll keep after it and send them to you! (Got your wonderful email & am completely astonished and in love with your amazing art work! You SHOULD be a well-know artist!!!) Sending this and back to my project! Will send photos and write soon! (I LOVED THE windmill silhouette!)
@stray_shooter Fun! I hoped someone would take note! Yes, they are long, seeing as how they fit into that beak! Have you watched one feeding her babies? Totally fascinating! Got some more today...I got out and they pretty much come around right away. What I don't have is a beautiful array of garden flowers for them, so it'll never be much more than this...