Autumn Hummingbirds
Okay, just to prove that the "take your hummingbird feeder in on Labor Day" is bunk, we still have hummingbirds:
Not only that, but someone who lives in Duluth, MN reported a hummingbird at his feeders yesterday. This is normal hummingbird movement this time of year and good reason to keep the feeders out--get that last reminder of summer before they head south across the Gulf of Mexico.
Speaking of hummingbird migration, Scott Weidensaul mentioned there is a study he and others are conducting on the increased number of western hummingbirds that are showing up in the eastern U.S. (we just had a green-breasted mango in Beloit, WI).
The researchers are banding hummers when they can and Scott is theorizing that we may be seeing a new migratory route being developed by some of these populations. A route that takes them from the western US across the continent to the east coast and then south. He noted that many of these birds are turning up later in the season. Another reason to keep those hummingbird feeders out.
Not only that, but someone who lives in Duluth, MN reported a hummingbird at his feeders yesterday. This is normal hummingbird movement this time of year and good reason to keep the feeders out--get that last reminder of summer before they head south across the Gulf of Mexico.Speaking of hummingbird migration, Scott Weidensaul mentioned there is a study he and others are conducting on the increased number of western hummingbirds that are showing up in the eastern U.S. (we just had a green-breasted mango in Beloit, WI).
The researchers are banding hummers when they can and Scott is theorizing that we may be seeing a new migratory route being developed by some of these populations. A route that takes them from the western US across the continent to the east coast and then south. He noted that many of these birds are turning up later in the season. Another reason to keep those hummingbird feeders out.
posted by birdchick at 8:02 AM
8 Comments:
Obviously the hummingbirds are waiting for the big red-tail migration.
When I lived Stateside, I wouldn't bring my hummingbird feeder in until it was frozen solid. I figured by that time, they were all south.
No, it wasn't because I was forgetful.
I am fortunate to have hummingbirds year round - the Anna winters over in my area. But, sometimes it is a pain - especially during extreme cold when I have to be on top of the solution to keep it from freezing.
karmyn, same here.
A couple of winters ago I spotted one checking out the pitiful remains of my geranium. "ACK! Why haven't you migrated??" I told her. I got my feeder back out pronto, and later learned that she and her buddies were Anna's.
So my mother-in-law back east may have dozens of ruby-throateds in her yard during the summer, but I get to feed them in February.
Banding a humming bird? Do they make bands that light-weight?
I think that would be akin to nailing your foot to the floor. All you could do is run around in a circle!
*beams* I saw my first ever live wild hummingbird Monday. I knew they were in this area, I just didn't know they were in my neighborhood.
I swear if we took ours in too early they'd dive bomb us as we sat on the deck. n
Sharon,
I was feeding about 15 ruby-throateds here in Charlotte. For the past week, there are only two left. I'll keep my feeders full until they are rock solid, too, for those who are passing by.
Thanks for the tips!
Post a Comment
<< Home