Feeder Fighting
Last evening I noticed that this particular RUBY-THROATED HUMMINGBIRD has declared possession and property of the nectar feeder in our backyard. I think it is competing with only 2 or 3 other hummingbirds for the moment and will give chase to any that come near the feeder. They'll fight when it isn't necessary. Most hummingbird species are extremely territorial and try to chase off intruders, even if there is an abundant food supply for every hummingbird that could possibly come. A solution that might quell the fighting is to place a second nectar feeder, which I may eventually do depending on how long this hummingbird sticks around.
On the chase - the hummingbird is quicker than the lens! After watching this show of territorial behavior for a while I noticed that while the "piggy" hummingbird was busy chasing, a third hummer would come in and quickly take a sip of nectar. Not for long, though. The possessive hummingbird would come back, chase, and then return to perching atop the feeder hanger, darting its head around seemingly looking for the next contender.
Ruby-throated Hummingbird image © 2005 Michael Allen McDowell
posted by Mike McDowell @ 6:00 AM
2 comments
2 Comments:
My husband and I have two hummingbird feeders but it hasn't helped with the fighting. We were very dismayed to watch the fight escalate and one hummer actually chased the other to the ground and held him there. This happened repeatedly most of the afternoon to the point that my husband tried to break up the fighting. The next morning one of them was dead on our porch. They were both males. My husband thought maybe it was a coincidence but I think they fought to the death, which upsets me terribly and I want to take my feeders down.
I've noticed this behavior at my feeder. First time I'd seen it, and found your blog by researching it on Google.
Love your site.
Jack Burns
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