Ruby-Throated Hummingbird (Male)
Archilochus colubris		August 26, 2012
 


Seeing a ruby-throated hummingbird (Archilochus colubris) is such a treat! They're not only pretty but also incredible flyers. And they are quite spunky. The hummers would have to be too, considering they fly across the Gulf of Mexico during their migration south (in fall) and north (in spring).

Hummers are among the smallest if not the smallest birds. A ruby-throated hummingbird has an average weight of less than 4 grams (about an 8th of an ounce).

The male's ruby throat iridescence is only visible from certain angles; otherwise, his throat feathers appear black. The first photo shows a touch of red.

 
Male ruby-thr0ated hummer
 

The second photo shows the hummingbird leaving the feeder backward and, in this case, a black throat.
 
Male hummer
 

Here we have a sideways exit (and a black throat).
 
Male hummer
 

Later, in the evening, I photographed a male ruby-throat who had a brilliant ruby throat.
 
Male ruby-throated hummingbird
 

I've a parallel page of female ruby-throated hummingbirds from this year's migration.

Photo note: I used a Pentax K20D, with the Sigma 150-500mm lens, on 24 August 2012, for these photos (of my backyard).



My Pennsylvania bird list

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