The ruby-throated hummingbird is one of the smallest birds in the world. It spends the winter in Central America, Mexico, and Florida, and migrates to Canada and other parts of Eastern North America for the summer to breed. It's one of the most common species in North America. Males are smaller than females and display a red ruby throat which can be seen given proper lighting. Migration starts early in the year and they are seen in the South in early to mid March. They reach the upper East Coast in April and continue to New England where these beautiful birds can be seen until they migrate again in September. Breeding occurs and the female makes a small nest. Hummingbird eggs are extremely small and the female takes full responsibility raising them. Hummingbirds are solitary and very territorial. Their vocalization is a rapid squeaky chirp and is a joy to hear. It may be heard when one male feels a threat from another. Hummingbirds feed on many different nectar bearing flowers and seem more prone to vibrant red, orange and pink tubular types. It's exciting to be in a garden filled with plant life and feeders when out of nowhere a hummingbird flies in. Hummingbird photography is a real challenge but the rewards are amazing. Photos taken at Pennypack Ecological Center, Huntingdon Valley, Pennsylvania.
