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Our beloved Rufous Hummingbirds. Solstice 2025

20/6/2025

These magnificent, tiny birds are only around Vancouver Island for a short few months. Seems like just days ago, I eagerly watched for and spotted the first returning Rufous (miid March)
The females waste no time in looking for a secret spot to build their nests and by April many female Rufous are on their nests incubating eggs. (I have never personally found a nest, but did document on not far from here a few years ago). The males set up territories and fiercely push off the local Annas Hummingbirds ... Lots of battles, but the Rufous dominate , despite only being 2/3 their size.
Recently I have had a flood of the tiny creatures in the yard devouring small flying insects and of course the sugary nectar I provide daily. Lots of adults and young Rufous practicing their Ariel jousting and special maneuvers.
Right around now, on Solstice the adult males are preparing to head South to their wintering areas in Mexico. I can't imagine the journey that happens twice a year for these miniature marvels, but they somehow navigate across great stretches of ocean, along mountain valleys and through forests. (No, they don't ride on the backs of Canada Geese :) haaaa... but lots of folks still believe this legend)
The Rufous males are the first to pull out with most being absent by July 1st, followed by the adult females, then the young of the year... How do they find their way??? 1000's of miles to travel and a metabolism that requires frequent nectar to survive.

Nature always amazes!!!

Special Solstice hello's to everyone who follows my blog... I really appreciate all 5 of you people. Big Hugs to all and God Bless
TerryV