Snapshot – Ruby-throated Hummingbird

Female landing on the feeder to load up on sugar water.

I rarely see males once migration and mating have finished. The females do all the nest building and rearing while the males disappear right after the mating. These little birds are very solitary and aggressive. Ruby-throated Hummingbirds will fight over flower beds, feeders and territory with any other adult that comes into view, including a previous mating partner! There have been occasions where three birds will arrive at or near my feeder at the same time and what ensues looks like aerial combat between fighter aircraft.