Beautiful Backyard Hummingbird, Feeds Brand New Chicks 6/30/24
"June signals the start of nesting season for hummingbirds. At this point in the year, the birds have mainly recovered from their lengthy migration from places as far away as Central America, and are ready to focus on their next set of challenges: establishing a territory, courtship, mating, and rearing young.
Hummingbird nests are a wonder all their own. Tiny and cup-like, they are generally found affixed to small branches near riparian areas. Nests are constructed primarily of plant materials and are lined with plant down such as the fluffy seeds produced by cottonwood trees. Materials used on the exterior of the nest vary from species to species. Black-chinned hummingbirds use leaves and flowers, while Broad-tailed hummingbirds are partial to decorating with lichens or shredded bark. Regardless of the exterior appearance, hummingbird nests have one important material in common - spider webs. Hummingbirds collect the webs and use them to plaster the outside of the nest, which serves two important purposes: acting as a glue that holds nest materials together while at the same time providing some flexibility that allows the nest to stretch and grow with the developing young."
Seeing a hummingbird nest in my sister's backyard, amazes me, (they are so teeny) but to return and see young ones, is awe inspiring. This Mama has been protecting this nest for over 6 weeks. June 30, 2024 she is seen feeding her young ones.
Music: The Interstellar Experience by TonyAnn