Hummingbird Delight

This Ruby-throated Hummingbird landed in our Petunias and I was able to catch her before she fed on the nectar of this flower.

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by Sandi OReilly

Title

Hummingbird Delight

Artist

Sandi OReilly

Medium

Photograph - Photography

Description

This Ruby-throated Hummingbird landed in our Petunias and I was able to catch her before she fed on the nectar of this flower.

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Ruby-throated Hummingbirds are solitary. Adults of this species are not social, other than during courtship (which lasts a few minutes); the female also cares for her offspring. Both males and females of any age are aggressive towards other hummingbirds. They may defend territories, such as a feeding territory, attacking and chasing other hummingbirds that enter.

As part of their spring migration, portions of the population fly across the Gulf of Mexico. This feat is impressive, as a 800 km (500 mi), non-stop flight over water would seemingly require a caloric energy that far exceeds an adult hummingbird's body weight of 3 g (0.11 oz). However, researchers discovered the tiny birds can double their lean mass in preparation for their Gulf crossing. The additional mass, stored as fat, provides enough energy for the birds to achieve the flight.

They feed frequently while active during the day. When temperatures drop, particularly on cold nights, they may conserve energy by entering hypothermic torpor.

Fine Art Nature Photography by Sandi O'Reilly, All Rights Reserved and Copyrighted.

ALL FAA WATERMARKS ARE REMOVED AT THE TIME OF PURCHASE!

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August 30th, 2012

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