Setting up Territory

​     For residents of the Eastern US and Canada, we are eagerly awaiting the arrival of the Ruby Throats. These birds are much like many of the others in terms of the process that takes place each Spring. The males typically arrive earlier than the females. They locate a territory that's well suited in terms of food sources, structure of trees, water sources, and quantity of all these things. If you have a great layout, you will have more territorial battles between the males. The supreme feathered gladiator will rule over this territory and await the arrival of the females. Many people are under the assumption that hummingbirds pair up, but it's not the case. Hummingbirds are polygamous, so this one male will find as many mates as possible. This is his primary role in continuing his strong DNA. The females will arrive days after, where this anxious male will be carefully scouting over his territory. He has to balance out his activities between chasing away intruding males and charming the females. 
  It's truly the most exciting time of year for both "hummingbirders" and hummingbirds. 
Adult Male Ruby-throat hummingbird. N.E. of Edmonton, AB. 2015

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