I ordered a new hummingbird feeder for my yard, and while preparing to hang it, I had an unexpected visitor – a stunning Ruby-throated Hummingbird. Quickly hanging the feeder and grabbing my camera, I was able to capture a photo of this tiny creature in mid-flight. It was a stroke of great luck and impeccable timing.
Did you know that the Ruby-throated Hummingbird is the only hummingbird species that breeds in eastern North America? These incredible birds are known for their unique flying abilities, with the ability to hover in mid-air and fly backward. They have a wingspan of only about 4 inches, making them one of the smallest bird species in the world.
Ruby-throated Hummingbirds are migratory birds, spending the winter months in Central America and South America before returning to their breeding grounds in the United States and Canada in the spring. During their migration, these birds can fly non-stop for up to 18-20 hours, covering a distance of over 500 miles!
If you are interested in attracting hummingbirds to your yard, setting up a feeder is a great way to do so. Be sure to use a mixture of one part sugar to four parts water, and avoid using honey, which can be harmful to these delicate birds. With a little bit of patience and luck, you too may be able to witness the beauty of the Ruby-throated Hummingbird in your own backyard.
Gear Used:
- Camera: Canon EOS R7
- Lens: Canon RF 100-500 mm F4.5-7.1 L IS USM
Technical:
- Location: Lavaca (Arkansas)
- Date and Time Taken: April 29, 2023 (11:03 A. M.)
- Aperture: f8
- Shutter speed: 1/2000
- ISO: 2500 (Auto)
- Focal Length: 500 mm