Immature Ruby-throated Hummingbird drops by: Regina, SK

Ruby-throated Hummingbird resting in the lilac trees between feedings. © SB

I was planning to put away the hummingbird feeder when I saw a Ruby-throated Hummingbird buzz by it. So I refilled it with fresh sugar water, and have been told to continue doing so for several weeks yet. Hummingbirds may be migrating, but they are not yet gone — and there are often strays that arrive later in the fall looking for sustenance.

At first, I thought the Ruby-throated Hummingbird we saw throughout the day yesterday and the one that's been busy here today was a female, because its throat is quite pale. On a closer view, though, there are a fair number of dark speckles on her/his throat, which makes it more likely that this is an immature male...

Unless, of course, there are two birds taking turns in our yard? But I think it's just that with feather colours, so much depends on the light.

This Ruby-throated Hummingbird has me trained - I see it, I fill the feeder.  © SB  

I think this is the same bird - it's possible it's not, as this was taken yesterday,
and the ones above were taken today. The light was different, which affects colour. © SB

A front view, yesterday's Ruby-throated Hummingbird, resting.  © SB

Another look at the feathers of today's Ruby-throated Hummingbird. © SB 

  

What is this? An immature male Ruby-throated Hummingbird - Colibri à gorge rubis
Location: Backyard, Regina, Saskatchewan
Photo date: September 8, 2016.

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