April 10, 2003
Photo Gallery of Wing Island Birds - Archives
Ruby-throated Hummingbird
| We don't band Ruby-throated Hummingbirds, but we sometimes capture them in our mist nets. Adult males have an iridescent red throat that appears black except when reflected by certain light. Hummingbirds feed on nectar and are attracted to sugar water feeders. Their wings beat fifty-five times per second and can fly in all directions. Ruby-throats are migratory and return to Cape Cod the third to fourth week in April. They may raise two broods per year producing only two eggs per brood. The nest is constructed of spider silk and lichens on a forked branch and is extremely well camouflaged. |