Description

Hummingbirds are a cherished sight in the Boston area, residing here only in the summer. Walking in a local park, I certainly did not expect to see one fluttering high up among the chipping sparrows in a grove of tall evergreen trees. I took some pictures of the little bird perched on a branch among the small, round pinecones and only later realized that she was actually sitting on her nest. Thrilled, I went back the next day and, following the mother, was able to find the nest again, about 20 feet above ground and looking just like another pinecone to the casual observer. During the next two weeks, I visited regularly (but respectfully) and was lucky enough to see at first two little heads emerge from the nest, and later two feisty young bird stretching their tiny new wings. (Only one is visible in this photo, the other one was behind it.)

Category

Category 7: The Unexpected

Species

• Ruby-throated Hummingbird

Tags

• Nest
• Nestlings