Ruby-throated Hummingbird (juvenile male)
Seems like everyone on line is buzzing about hummingbird activity. Ruby-throated hummingbirds are not well-adapted to winter weather. To avoid the cold weather, they migrate to the south. Peak migration is late August and early September. That is why they are feeding, stockpiling energy for their long trip south. There are still several hummingbirds coming to my feeder regularly. This one is a juvenile male (note the streaked neck). I also saw an adult male (ruby throat) at the feeder this morning. I'm not sure how many there are still hanging around. They are impossible to tell apart!
Some people think that you should take your feeders down in order to prompt them to migrate, but that is unfounded. Instincts will guide them to migrate at the right time and when they are at the right weight. They actually leave while food sources are still abundant. So leave your feeders up! That way, they will be more likely to visit you again next summer!
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