I am beginning to have some concerns about the social behavior
of Hummingbirds.  First, I learned that the male Ruby-throat takes no part
in family rearing after he has made his contribution to the genetics of the
next generation.  Next, there was the film of the cute little nest in
California where the two baby hummers seemed to be doing so well - and
suddenly there was only one.  No secret to anyone, but that the remaining
hummer had booted the smaller one out to its death.  

            Today, at my own feeder, I saw one hummer attacking another with
such ferocity as to grab the foot of the victim and pull the bird down to
the floor of my deck, where they bounced a couple of times before the victim
broke loose to fly away, with the attacker right behind - in hostile
pursuit.

            Kind of a tough world out there!

                        

Les Roslund



Talbot County

Easton MD 21601