Like Diann Stone said, everyday is different. Again, thanks to Susan Patla for giving me notice to watch out for this yr’s crop of Rufous. Because, yesterday evening another change occurred at the nectar feeder & continues this AM. As many as 5 at a time of immature Rufous Hummingbirds are hitting the feeder & each other!

Of the 4 hummer species which we get, the Rufous Hummers are definitely the most territorial & aggressive. I’ve watched epic battles, can hear their body slams into each other & observed their chattering face-offs, bill to bill, all within 10 ft of me! Quite entertaining, although to them, purely necessary for survival on their southern trek to meet their energy needs.

So, now, only juvenile Rufous are at the nectar feeder. Mainly juvenile Black-headed Grosbeaks at the seeds. Red-breasted Nuthatches are calling &, again a couple of weeks early, juvenile Chipping Sparrows are in the grassy pastures. Fewer Lazuli Buntings are around. Fall migrants are on the move.

Brian Carrigan
Blackfoot