Hummingbirds

Males assert their territorial claims soon after their mid-February arrival on the breeding grounds by means of a “O”-shaped or “J”-shaped display. Several females may visit the display area in succession and the ardent male tries hard to impress every one. For her part, the female constructs the nest of plant downs held fast with […]

Males stake out territories at luxuriant stands of flowers or at feeders, where they aggressively defend against competing males. Other creatures, including humans, may be similarly seen as intruders and are met with stylized displays meant to intimidate. The males tolerate females of the species, at least to a point. Females construct elaborate, walnut shell-sized

The hottest, most arid deserts of southern California and Arizona are home to the 3 ½-inch Costa’s hummingbird. Both the gorget and crown of the male blaze vibrant purple. A high-pitched tik often reveals the presence of territorial bird guarding his patch of blossoms. Female coloring of gray and green is more somber. Ocotillo, desert

The males’ “U”-shaped displays are accompanied by a metallic tzing, meant to dazzle a prospective mate. The magenta gorget feathers are extended to catch the fullest effect of the sun. A flat bzt, produced at the lowest point of the flight, is probably produced by wing or tail feathers. A twig beneath the sheltering larger