Ruby throated Humming birds

These are the hummingbirds we were watching when the humming bird moth was spotted that I posted about recently.
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Hummingbirds get their name from the sound they make. Their wings beat so fast (up to 70 beats per minute) that they make a humming noise that is so loud that it causes you to duck if they fly near!

There are 15 species of hummingbirds living in the United States. The only one of that occurs east of the Mississippi River, the ruby-throated hummingbird (Archilochus colubris) is the one I see here at my house.

the bird resembles a tiny helicopter as it maneuvers throughout its habitat, flying forward, backward, upward and downward and hovering in place. At 3.5 inches in length and weighing less than a nickel, their bodies are covered in metallic green feathers that shimmer in the sunlight. The ruby throat gets its name from the color of the male’s brilliant throat feathers, also known as a gorget. Depending upon how the light strikes, the feathers here can shimmer a brilliant ruby-red or appear flat black. Yet, the male is able to manipulate these feathers for maximum color when attempting to impress a female. Like many bird species, the female lacks this stunning feature, sporting a white throat and breast. Hummingbirds have incredibly short legs which prevent them from hopping or walking, so you will never see one on the ground.

This info comes from a great article about Hummingbirds

These tiny little birds are incredibly bold. They come to the feeder on my deck no matter how many people are out there. I've had them come and get between me and the book I am reading when I am sitting quietly.

Hope you enjoy the photos!

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