Humming Bird Nest Discovered, still under construction, May 13, 2003.
First egg, May 16
Mom, sitting -- thinking -- (about that second egg!)
Yes! Two eggs, May 20, 03 ~~ (For perspective: a common 2½" toothpick, marked in half inch segments.)
June 3, 2003 I find "Mom" sitting on her nest.
A few minutes later she takes a break - and what do I see?? They surely have just hatched, the shells are still present and they appear a little damp! (June 3, :01 am)
Returning just 50 minutes later, I find them stretched out and relaxed. Imagine a bird -- less than one half inch long! (June 3, :50 am) Those little yellow beaks have a lot of growing to do!!
Mom has returned and all is well!
June 6, 03 Three days old. At 8 o'clock they were resting head-to-tail.
Passing by again at 10:30 - they are both facing West. Their beaks are beginning to darken.
June 10, days old.
They're beginning to grow pin-feathers.
Little Mr. Innocent! Shall we name him "Cain?"
June 14, days of age Sorry to report, they are now one! I have never heard or read of this type of attrition in Humming birds. (As is common with Eagles.) Who knows?
Feathers are starting to show, his beak is turning darker. It appears he intends to fill the tiny nest all by himself! June 17, the 14th day
June 21, - 4 more days have brought some color to those stubby little feathers.
Last photo June 27, Age: 24 days
Later this day, our little bird took to the air! Good Luck -- Little Guy!!!