Preparation

Each year I enjoy photographing and indeed just watching the small group of Ruby-throated Hummingbirds that early, March thru September, share the natural areas with us. We make sure that our feeders are kept clean and full of the sugar water the tiny birds consume to supplement their flower nectar diets. Although my observations suggest that their migratory habits are a bit altered this year, this is the time of year they begin to prepare for their long trip south. I'm never certain how long to leave our feeders up. One school of thought makes the case that even though here in G'ville we don't have a year 'round resident population of hummers, it's a good idea to leave their feeders up the entire year. Why you should leave your hummingbird feeder up all year. I find myself leaving the feeders up longer and longer each year for stragglers and visitors blown off course by winter's winds. 
So...I guess we should just enjoy these beautiful, energetic, pushy little flying jewels for as long as we can. Then wish them safe travels for the remainder of their journey. m