In the Eastern U.S., it would be a very rare hummingbird if it wasn't a Ruby-Throat. The females are much less "showy", have more green than red coloration, but still have the iridescence in their feathers. The males have the bright-ruby throat.
The color must catch the light in a certain way to appear iridescent. Males will "flash" a rival in its territory by turning its throat in the rival's direction.*
It does seem as though the females use feeders more than males, but males live a shorter (25%) lifespan.*
Females have been observed chasing off hawks, crows, and people from their nests. These "attacks" are accompanied by loud vocalizations.* (I've heard these "loud vocalizations". If you attend Meadowbrook, or have a noisy boat, you won't be able to pick up on these "loud vocalizations").
Feeders should have a sugar-to-water ratio of 1:4. Feeders should also be located away from housecats, who constitute a major threat to hummingbird populations.*
*= The Sibley Guide to Bird Life, 2001
|