A few more Rufous Hummingbirds, a hardier and larger species, find their way into new territory each fall, surprising and delighting observers. This adult male Rufous Hummingbird was in Neosho, Missouri at Becky Wylie's feeder on Oct. 24. More news of the suprising Minnesota Rufous also came this week. These sightings are reminders of the vital importance of hummingbird feeders to migrants in places where blooming flowers are scarce or gone by late fall.
"You will not believe us, but the Rufous Hummingbird remains with the family on Pumpkin Hill Road in Tyrone Township, LeSueur County, Minnesota. All Ruby-throats have been long-gone." Barbara and Arthur S.. inLeSueur 10/24/14
Becky Wylie, Neosho, MO 10/24/14