Hummingbirds

Kay R
by Kay R
I'm just wondering how you all are doing with your hummers? I'm so happy to say I have more than I can handle. I probably have too many feeders (12) but they just keep coming!!
And what's so funny is that this year I have a "Super Bully!" He even chases the cardinals and other big birds from their feeders. I usually have a couple that stand out as bullies but have never seen one like I have now.
How about ya'll?
  15 answers
  • Susan S Susan S on Jul 30, 2012
    Oh gee, what a tough problem to have Kay!! Remember earlier in the spring we were talking about when our hummers would finally show up? Mine did not come as early as I thought they might given how early we had consistent warm weather. Anyway, can't say I have an over abundance but my husband wants me to put a 3rd one out of view of the other two so a couple of them will have a better chance of getting some nectar instead of getting chased off by the inevitable bullies!! No, I do not think 12 is too many!!
  • Kay R Kay R on Jul 30, 2012
    Oh yes, I remember when I was so thrilled to have 2 of the little critters. The enjoyment they bring is just priceless and I can't think of anything else that could get me out in 100 degree weather!! I just wish they could understand that there is plenty for everybody and they don't have to fight so hard.
  • Susan S Susan S on Jul 30, 2012
    Having bullies just seems to naturally come with the territory!! That's part of what makes them so much fun to watch!!
  • KMS Woodworks KMS Woodworks on Aug 01, 2012
    I just have my two feeders and have been averaging about 5 cups of nectar a day.
  • Kay R Kay R on Aug 01, 2012
    Only 2 KMS??? That's not nearly enough. :) I got 4 more today and they are beauties - they're starting to go on sale in this area so I'm stocking up. I told my husband that humming bird feeders are like shoes...............you can never have enough! I was making the nectar up by the batch but it was turning into a full time job so now I make it up by the gallon and it's much easier. I've got more birds than normal and also more hummers and it's almost to the point we need an air traffic controller!
  • Susan S Susan S on Aug 01, 2012
    Kay - I put a 3rd feeder out yesterday evening figuring it might take them a day or so to find it as it was more out of sight of the main two feeders. Well . . . . . it was an absolute feeding frenzy!! We couldn't believe the flurry of activity around that one!! Then tonight after an afternoon shower, the dragonflies were buzzing all around zapping up mosquitoes I guess but they were just going crazy and it kept our heads swiveling to keep up with them!!
  • KMS Woodworks KMS Woodworks on Aug 02, 2012
    When we entertain on the deck I almost feel like I need to issue safety glasses...with dozens of birds zipping by at near invisible speeds...all with pointy beaks...its scary to thinks about it. But like the acrobats they are we have never had a collision. I've seen them zip through the railing on the deck at full speed..its mind blowing how precise they are.
  • Susan S Susan S on Aug 02, 2012
    Kevin- you should post a sign, "CAUTION!! HUMMINGBIRD FLIGHT PATH-OBSERVE AT YOUR OWN RISK" (Duck when necessary) !! LOL We've seen this kind of activity at my brother's cabin when we go visit. It almost feels like it's dangerous to sit on the porch sometimes!!
  • Kay R Kay R on Aug 02, 2012
    There are so many "near misses" but never a hit. The most amazing thing happened yesterday - I was sitting on the porch watching them and one flew right up to my face and stayed there 15-20 seconds! I could even feel the air from his wings - I keep hoping it will happen again - heaven knows I sit out there enough!! I have feeders on 4 windows near where we sit and they think nothing of getting within a few feet of us. These are the most amazing little critters! Susan I had a good laugh about the sign but maybe not a bad idea. :)
  • Susan S Susan S on Aug 02, 2012
    My husband keeps telling me I need to put on some bright red lipstick and just stand close to the feeder and see what they do. I guess he's thinking they might think the lipstick is a flower. I do not plant on carrying out his fantasy!!
  • Kay R Kay R on Aug 02, 2012
    Susan, if you do decided to do this I definitely want you to post a pic!! That's just too funny.
  • Susan S Susan S on Aug 02, 2012
    Yeah right Kay!! Just who's side are you on??? LOL
  • Linda B Linda B on Aug 07, 2012
    I get 2 hummingbirds the end of August and I think I am extremely lucky (happy, too) that I get to see them at all. Wow. Nice. I wonder if I have pictures showing on my two items. Do you think you could check? I see them myself but people are saying they can't see them. Thanks. Linda
  • Susan S Susan S on Aug 07, 2012
    Linda, I'm not sure what it is you're asking. I clicked on your profile pic and there were some things about adirondak furniture but I'm not sure what you want us to look for.
  • KMS Woodworks KMS Woodworks on Aug 08, 2012
    Linda ...they are there ...Your nephews log stuff a salad bird bath and another beach wreath shadow box thingy...