Sunday, April 15, 2012

Allen's or Rufous Hummingbirds - even the most experienced birders aren't sure!

Yes, it is nearly impossible to tell an Allen's Hummingbird from a Rufous Hummingbird. I've been advised to say it's a Selasphorus and then I can't go wrong. Paul Brewer photographed one of these beauties feeding on a Pride of Madera bush at his Gualala home.



Hummingbirds - they are living jewels that visit our gardens. Thanks to Paul for allowing me to share his exquisite photos with you here.
at

4 comments:

  1. Ron LeValleyApril 15, 2012 at 7:13 PM

    We had a similar invasion last week in Little River.

    The top one is a young male, probably Allen’s, but I would call it a Selasphorus too!

    The bottom two are solid Rufous Hummers. Not a hint of green on the back (I know you can’t see the back well, but if it was an Allen’s you would see green from this view).

    Cool shots. Paul told me about them the other day. Pretty fun!

    Ron

    ReplyDelete
  2. Jeanne JacksonApril 16, 2012 at 7:16 AM

    Thanks, Ron. I thought the bottom two were Rufous but I wasn't sure about the top one. I have a Rufous visit my chive blossoms. They must be very tasty!

    ReplyDelete
  3. Frank DrouillardApril 16, 2012 at 8:13 AM

    I'm sure they are, but can you imagine how many it would take to make a meal?

    Sorry, couldn't resist. ;^)

    ReplyDelete
  4. Jeanne JacksonApril 17, 2012 at 7:38 AM

    The chive blossoms, Frank, not the hummers! sheesh...:-)

    ReplyDelete