Week Ending February 18, 2009
Asking questions: Read these descriptions from observers. What 3 questions would you ask these observers so you could better understand how hummingbirds survive the winter in the United States?
February 5: Lakeland, FL
(28.04 N, -81.93 W)
I have had a male Ruby in my yard since Jan.10th. I usually see one for a few days in Feb. but never this early or for this long. He feeds throughout the day from my two feeders. >>
January 28: Cypress, TX
(30.00 N, -95.68 W)
Two Rufous Hummingbirds have spent the winter with us. This is our fith season with at least two of these hummers spending the winter with us. >>
January 24: Lubbock, TX
(33.59 N, -101.85 W)
A gorgeous first-year male Rufous Hummingbird is still at a feeder in Lubbock. I had seen this bird earlier this month and was very impressed with how much more colorful he was less than three weeks later. This bird has been present at the site since at least mid-November. With no truly cold weather predicted for the next couple of weeks, there is a good chance this bird will be able to make it through an entire Lubbock winter. >>
- Reports from Other Observers: You can find all observations reported this week in the sightings database and on the on the rufous and rubythroat migration maps.
For Your Journal: Each week, choose your favorite hummingbird sighting and record your thoughts in your journal. >>
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Winter Rubythroat! This
female ruby-throated hummer is one of several reported wintering
near New Orleans.
(Females don't have a red throat like the males do!) |