This morning I’m sharing a photo of a beautiful Ruby-throated Hummingbird glowing in the early light. I took it here in Arkansas just three days ago.
Ruby-throated Hummingbird in bright morning light – Canon R7, handheld, f9, 1/200, ISO 800, -0.7 EV, Canon EF 100-400mm II at 400mm, natural light
It’s safe to say this Ruby-throated Hummingbird is a female. The young males hatched this year already have some ruby feathers showing on their throats, and this bird doesn’t have a hint of that color on her throat.
Whether she’s an adult or a young female from this year is something I’d leave to an expert like ornithologist Peter Pyle to sort out.
Early in the breeding season, it is easier to say definitively that arriving female Ruby-throated Hummingbirds are adult females. This late in the season? Not so much.
I couldn’t resist photographing this hummingbird as she waited for her turn at the nearby nectar feeder. Why on earth would I?
The hummingbirds won’t be here all that much longer. I’ll photograph these flying jewels every chance I get.
Life is good.
Mia
Click here to see more of my Ruby-throated Hummingbird photos plus facts and information about this species.
Sweet shot. Very balanced and the detail around the hummingbirds head and eye is wonderful. Thanks Mia.