A Late Season Antillean Crested Hummingbird Nest
Just as I thought the hummingbird nesting season was over, my gardener alerted me to a new site in the yard. With three mature females on the property, it is not a surprise. It is good news.
Milton discovered the nest in a newly planted fruit tree on Tuesday. Two eggs were present upon discovery. This means we can’t calculate a hatch date with accuracy. Based on my most recent visits to the area, I would assume they were laid in the last seven days.
She is diligent in her protection of the nest and has fewer Pearly-eyed thrashers to chase off.
Recent rains mean the garden is in full bloom. This provides an abundant food supply to keep her energy up for incubation and chick feedings.
Her biggest challenge is the fast-approaching peak of hurricane season in Anguilla. We are just ten days away from the time when storms are most likely to occur in this area.
I will monitor her progress, and we should all wish her good luck for a positive outcome!
If you are wondering what happened to the two young chicks from “Itty Bit’s” nest earlier this summer, they are living on the edge of the garden.
The young male can be seen daily feeding in the trees and has developed a lovely crest.
I expect the dominant male in the garden community will soon push him out. Until then, I will enjoy his presence!
Take a Walk on the Wild Side!
Oh my what happy news and such great photos. They are so sweet!
Lovely news! Thank you for keeping us posted. We pray for an uneventful hurricane season. See you in November !