Hummingbirds

Hummingbirds

Ruby-throated hummingbirds (Archilochus colubris) are the only hummingbirds found in the Star Lake area. Their names refers to the coloration of the male. Females have a green or brown back with a white breast. They are known to be attracted to anything red, and folks in the Star Lake area widely employ this trait to attract them to sugar-water hummingbird feeders, where their flying acrobatics are easily enjoyed.

The winter in Central America, beginning their journey northward with a 500-mile, 18-20 hour flights over the Caribbean. The then come north following the spring flowers. Return journeys can begin as early as July (from points further north), and the leave the Star Lake area usually around labor day. [Most of this information is taken from the article by Judith McGuire, cited in the bibliography below.]

Charles P. Forbes
September 22, 2008

Comprehensive References

Major References

McGuire, Judith, Ruby-throated Hummingbird, Trail Natives, in A.T. Journeys, Vol. 4, #5, Sept.-Oct 2008, pp. 28-29, Harpers Ferry, WV, 2008. View Full Record
Ohio Division of Wildlife, Ruby-Throated Hummingbird, Life History Notes, Publication 379, Columbus, 1999. View Full Record