Sometimes it's too easy to find hummingbirds in Southern AZ---this time of year there are a number of places that hang multiple feeders, attracting 8 or more varieties in a single day. Beautiful to view to be sure, but sort of like being at a zoo/aviary.
That's why I always find it rewarding to spot hummers in natural settings---far from feeders. Took a long hike the other day in the Chiricahua Nat'l Mon---primarily rock formations and oak/pine forest. Paused on a high point to take in the view and take a pic of this flowering plant (20' high stalk, agave? yucca?), and ended up watching a feeding Broad-tailed hummer get run off by three Magnificents. Didn't get a passable pic of the brilliant male, but got a couple of this one---female or juvie?
8 days camping in Western Colorado and 5 new birds: Juniper Titmouse, Mountain Bluebird, Black-billed Magpie, Clark's Nutcracker, Gray Jay. Beautiful!!!
