Hungry, Hungry Hummingbirds

[KarlaNoel]

I have one hummingbird feeder that I have kept clean and filled for several years. I have never seen more than one hummingbird at at time on it, because they are very territorial. The last few weeks, though, I have noticed two things that I don’t understand. First, more than one hummingbird will peacefully drink at the same time. Second, they are drinking so fast! Usually I refill once a week, and now I’m refilling almost daily.

Is this the season where other species migrate through? If so, why didn’t I notice it any other year? Why do the territorial local birds allow the passersby to drink from their prized spot? Is anyone else noticing this change?

Thanks so much!

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[anonyme]

It’s possible that you’re seeing a hummingbird parent with offspring that have recently fledged.

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[bluhorizon]

Hummingbirds and their feeders fluctuate wildly from time to time and season to season, so don’t panic if they disappear for awhile. When needed, they will remember where they’ve found food before and will come looking. You are correct that the Anna’s here are pretty territorial, so it’s possible that you may have young immature hummingbirds visiting and enjoying your hospitality. May also be a Mom with a kid or two tagging along. Immature birds can behave differently than adults. If you don’t already know this; they can be distinguished from adults primarily by their necks (females) and heads (males). Young males might start to get their iridescent head feathers, so he might look a little blotchy – but will not yet have the red / magenta head feathers that create a full hood on an adult male. Immature birds look very similar to adult females. The primary difference is that this time of year, they will not have the brilliant red/magenta gorget (throat) feathers that an adult female has. Of course both sex’s iridescent feathers can appear black in the right light – but markings will still be petty obvious. If you are (or anyone else) using a feeder this time of year, I trust it is not left in the sun, and that it gets cleaned every couple days – to prevent bacteria from growing that can make birds ill. Sugar+moisture+heat = growth acceleration.
Happy Hummer viewing!

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[spring]

I love eating my lunch (fried rice, pizza) in my garden and the birds will fly right in front of my face(1ft) and look at my food.
Love it….it always makes my day!!

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