Dinner Time

Yesterday afternoon when we came home from church there were six of the little hummers having a good meal in complete amity.  But, that didn't last long - the one that considers this his/her territory soon began to chase the others away.  The feeder is on a shepherd's crook, and that one perches up there, completely at the ready to dive-bomb any other hummingbird that comes to feed.  The ensuing battles are strenuous - they fly way up high, to the nearest tree, or just go around and around.  This morning, when Ron got up, there were four feeding, and the little "boss" was sitting on the crook watching.  He must get to the point where he's all worn out.  The whole scenario is fun to watch, but it is a little like watching a bunch of large bumblebees attacking each other.  Their aggression would be really scary if these little mites were as large as a crow. We have our own nature show right here by the back patio.

Hummers

Every year, I plant a cherry tomato plant in the Earth Box on the back patio, using a strong metal spiral to tie the plant to, to keep it from being unruly.  This year, I neglected to keep up with the fast-growing plant, so the top of the spiral is now a free perch.  The little red-headed finches come to perch on it to swing down to the bird bath which is next to the box for a drink or a swish .  Now, this pair of hummingbirds have taken over.  Ron wanted to have a feeder this year, so we researched on the internet and found the best way to do that for the welfare of the little warriors.  So far, we've had this pair - one has a bright red head, which does not show up in the shade.  We delight in watching their antics.  My only safe post is just inside the window that faces this scene.  Now I wish I had a better telescoping lens - but this will do for now.