(yes, I took this photo. Click to enlarge)
Our Ruby-throated Hummingbird visited tonight... since we have been seeing them so much, we decided to read up on them. As you can see above, I was able to get pretty darn close without her getting spooked. A few facts for those who are interested:
From http://www.hummingbirds.net/rubythroated.html :
-They quickly become accustomed to human presence, and will swoop down to investigate red articles of clothing, possibly as potential food sources. Feeders hung at windows attract as many visitors as ones farther from structures, and the bird that claims a feeder as its territory may spend much of the day perched nearby, guarding the food source against intruders.
-Average length: 3.5 inches
-Average weight: 1/8 ounce
-Body temperature: 105°-108°F
-Wing beats: 40-80 per second, average about 52
-Respiration: 250 per minute
-Heart rate: 250 beats/min resting; 1200 beats/min feeding
-Flight speed: 30 mph normal; 50 mph escape; 63 mph dive
Very interesting data. Hard to believe the performance characteristics of such a small bit of energetic life! And your shots are fantastic Patrick! Perhaps you should take up nature photography in your spare time.....
ReplyDeleteI remember once, when I took a walk in the Maine woods, and decided to snap a shot of Eagle Lake.
ReplyDeleteLater, when I downloaded them - there was a little suprise there for me. The Lockness Monster! No, that wasn't it at all.
It was a beautiful blue heron perfectly framed in the shot COMPLETELY by accident. Serendipitous as Dad would say.
Lucky as all hell, I'd say.
Thanks for the comments!