Tuesday, August 23, 2011

Nature Notes: The Ragged End of Summer

* I'm having computer issues and won't be around much for a few more days while repairs and upgrades are done. I'll catch up with you all as soon as I can!




The hummingbirds are looking pretty scruffy these days. Ruby Throats molt their body feathers in late August up here in the north, and they can be pretty comical while the new ones grow in. Look closely and you can see new growth around the eye on this little fellow.

Soon they'll be heading south. They molt their flight feathers once they arrive in their winter range. Like the last pot of sweet corn and the first cooler days, shaggy hummers are a sure sign that summer is nearly over.


Click here to visit Michelle's site and see more Nature Notes.

8 comments:

Jill said...

I did not know that they molt like that. Great picture! Good luck with the computer!

eileeninmd said...

Very pretty shot, I love these cute birds. Have a great day and good luck with your computer.

Carver said...

Very interesting post and a fantastic shot of the hummer.

Rambling Woods said...

Oh my gosh..this is fantastic.... Good luck with the computer...

ashok said...

nice picture...

Debbie said...

i despise computer issues!!

my hummers are gone, this guy is adorable...i have never seen them looking this way!!

Daryl said...

WOW .. girl you take some awesome shots

hannah said...

Hello there,
I don't often enlarge, but this one just wouldn't be denied: what a precious image. It makes me laugh. You are good with birds it seems. And of course the new nieces are even more precious.