The Waiting Game

     Many "hummingbirders" have been alternating their attention between the migration maps and staring at their hummingbird feeders.  It's remarkable how one of the tiniest birds on the planet can have such a massive impact on our everyday lives.  What's the intrigue that forces us to dedicate hours of our lives in hopes of spotting just one little hummingbird?  Well, you might get a different answer from anyone who suffers from this addiction.  For me, the list of intrigue is long.  First of all I struggle with how such a small cluster of feathers is capable of so much, but it goes so far beyond just their physical capabilities.  Just one glistening gorget feather reflects the most beautiful colors, and many placed in a pattern can display the most beautiful bird in existence.  
       We can see a million hummingbird sightings in our life, but the million and one is just as exciting.  They are fascinating beyond belief, and for those who are still waiting for their first, I sincerely hope you don't give up trying.  This is a hobby or project that requires persistence.  Sometimes it takes longer than others to get your first sighting, but if you cater to hummingbirds with feeders, choice flowers and other hummingbird attractions, your rewards will be great.  In time you can build up a population of hummingbirds that will make your garden complete. 
     I have to add one very important thing. Just because you haven't seen a hummingbird at your feeders doesn't mean they weren't there. It's impossible for any one of us to watch every feeder, every minute, of every daylight hour. These birds are like little ninjas. You can sneak a cup of coffee and return, and not have a clue one was there. Trust that they are around, and eventually the results will appear, especially after the young leave the nest. 
​May 2016, Adult Male Ruby-throated hummingbird.

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