In the Spring, residents in the Robson Valley always look forward to the return of the hummingbirds. We have two species that nest here: The rust-colored Rufus (shown in the photos) and the smaller, green, Calliope Hummingbird. I had put up my hummingbird feeder a few days ago, and was happy to see a few hummers come for a sugary drink.
Because hummingbirds are so unusual and distinct looking, they are quite noticeable, and we would certainly be aware if they didn’t return, but a study released on May 1st by Cornel University, has shown that there are three billion birds of various North American species that have disappeared since 1970’s. There are a few species that I used to notice around here, that I haven’t seen for years. Their disappearance is largely due to the loss of their habitat.
I was happy to see the hummers are back from wintering in the US South and Southwest. It is truly remarkable that these tiny and fragile-looking creatures can make such a long trips back and forth every year, and hopefully they will have a successful breeding and nesting season this summer in the Robson Valley.
View my paintings at: davidmarchant2.ca
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