Yesterday, October 3, I didn’t see any of the Ruby-throated Hummingbirds that frequent my yard here in Arkansas. I’m writing this mainly as a record to mark the date of their departure this year, which helps me track their movements season to season. I always get a little nostalgic when they leave, even though I know they’ll return next year.
What was particularly odd, though, was the number of honey bees and yellow jackets that swarmed my hummingbird feeder on October 2. I’d guess there were 20 or more buzzing around. I have a feeling this may have been one of the reasons the hummingbirds moved on when they did. The bees and wasps tend to get very aggressive around the feeders, making it tough for the little birds to get their fill.
The photo I’m sharing today is of a Ruby-throated Hummingbird that visited my feeder on October 1. If you look closely, you’ll notice something off with its feathers on top of its head. They appear matted, almost like the bird is sporting a toupee that got lifted by a gust of wind. I’m not entirely sure what caused this—maybe it’s from molting, or perhaps the bird got into something sticky or wet. Either way, it gave the bird quite the unique look!
What do you think it could be? Maybe one of you has seen something similar in your own hummingbird visitors.
For now, I’ll be keeping an eye out for any late stragglers, but it seems like the season for Ruby-throated Hummingbirds in my yard has come to a close. Until next year, little ones!
Steve, right around hurricane Helene was the last we had the wee ones in our back yard in Northern Illinois. I also felt the loss when they left, but glad they have somewhere to winter.