Expectant Mom in Our Woods

Danielle Lowe took this remarkable photo of a mother hummingbird sitting on her nest from her 2nd floor unit and the view inside the nest from the 3rd floor. The nest is in the woods in front of building 800 where the hummingbird can sometimes be seen flying high in the trees. She is a regular resident here in the early summer. Can you see the bits of spider web extending below the nest? Hummingbirds often take advantage of web strands' strength and elasticity for building nests.

Thank you Danielle! Anyone else have wildlife photos to share? We'd love to see them. Please contact Tom Brown: tom.retreat@gmail.com.

By the way, the ideal formula for hummingbird feeder “nectar” is 1 cup granulated white sugar to 4 cups water. You can start out with just a bit more water to allow for loss by steam. Bring mixture to a boil, stirring gently and let cool before placing into feeder. Please DO NOT USE powdered or brown sugar, maple syrup, Karo syrup, Splenda, Equal, Sweet'N'Low, or Kool Aid–they all contains ingredients that will harm the hummers.

There’s no need for adding red food coloring or dye to the solution. It has no nutritional value and can cause damage to their kidneys. If you have a good feeder, there is no need to have red color to attract them. I have a friend in Tuscon who uses clear test tube-like bottles to attract flocks of them.