Hummingbirds have been seen recently around the region. I have seen a female Rufous Hummingbird for about a week. And of late, a male Black-chinned Hummingbird has arrived.
During the hummingbird season, we get three different species: rufous, black-chinned, and calliope. Well, on rare occasions there has been seen a fourth: the Anna’s. The latter is seen at the Coast and in 2017 was made Vancouver’s official bird, but it is exceeding rare here. So we can count on seeing three species here, but as the sexes differ, there are six forms. I have yet to spot all six in one season.
Nevertheless, while watching the black-chinned, a different visitor stopped by.
A female Rufous Hummingbird flies by.
After a few days, a male Black-chinned Hummingbird frequently appeared and on one occasion it flashed its iridescent purple gorget.
While I was watching the black-chinned, a juvenile raccoon came around and begged.
These are great photos, Alistair.
Lovely.
We are concerned at having so few hummers around us this season, here in lower Kaslo. Normally we put up three feeders, and they are bombarded with much fighting. This year: one solitary pair of rufous hummingbirds and nobody else. Could there have been some migration catastrophe on their way here? Have any others experienced this sad absence? Is there any theory as to what has happened?
Mandy, I’m experiencing the same thing here in Harrop. I’m wondering why as well.
Sheila Dixon