Downy Woodpecker on Hummingbird Feeder!

by Karen Barchent
(Findlay, Ohio)

I ran across this picture the other day and thought I would share it with the readers.

Sorry it isn't very clear. I had trouble focusing because I took it from inside the kitchen window.

Several years ago we had a rather dry spell; in fact, the meteorologists were calling it a drought.

I looked out at my hummingbird feeder, and low and behold, there was a woodpecker trying its best to get a sip of nectar.

Since the perch of a hummingbird feeder is so small it was having a great deal of difficulty and I was getting a kick watching his efforts.

Where there is a will, there is a way, and eventually its goal was achieved!

Since that time we have placed a birdbath in the backyard for our feathered friends, although I have never seen a woodpecker using it. That's gratitude for ya! :-)

Incidentally, be careful what, or rather HOW, you pray for something, as a week after this photo was taken we got about 12 in. of rain, and our town suffered a horrendous flood!

Orioles at my Hummingbird feeders!

by Cindy
(High Desert Mtns, California)

I have discovered that, of the Oriole feeders I have provided out in my yard, it is the Hummingbird feeders they go to first hand!

The finches will eat the Jelly, and so will the little Verdins, but the Orioles, when around, will completely guard those feeders!!

Here is a picture of a Bullocks Oriole at one of the feeders.

It's exciting to see them come back year after year.

The other day we had an Oriole party, lol.

We had the Hooded, the Scotts and the Bullocks all vying for the same feeder, even though I have many out set up.

It was really neat to see their behaviors.

And to listen to the differences in their song! They have such a unique "Whistling", flute like song, each with different notes, it beautiful!

Hope you get a chance to see them.
Cindy

My hummingbird feeder surprise!

by Cindy
(Ca desert mtns.)

Okay... This is interesting.. ha ha.. I am learning that not only Hummingbirds, enjoy the sweet taste of nectar!

I originally put the feeder out early this year.. because standing on my porch one day.. planting my springtime flowers, brought a familiar buzzing sound to me.

My little hummers were back and told me loud and clear.

Like little helicopters, hovering and asking.. whats up? Where's our nectar!!??

They seem to just communicate to ya. So in I went to get it for them.

Shortly after putting the old feeder out again for the second year.. I found this guy on it!!

And he wasn't the least bit hesitant, despite our presence! What a beautiful bird.

He now visits the feeder at least once or twice a day.. that I have seen.

I wonder if the hummingbirds are the same from last year? They certainly look and act the same!!

The male last year seemed to always come and perch nearby me after a drink. sit, fluff up, listen to me.. and act ever so comfortable..

Check him out in the lower picture under the Woodpecker!!

He seemed to be saying.. I'm listening.. I promise I am!!

I couldn't add two pictures I will in another submission.

Ever so fond of birding.