Hummer Wars and a First Timer

This week we have our share of hummingbird activity, and the pleasure of a first-time sighting of a bird near our pond. Enjoy this week's offering.

 The White-eyed Vireo is heard nearly every morning at the office, but rarely seen. So a visit from the female Vireo is just as rare!

Still hoping to see some male Painted Buntings. The ladies are still around.

This young female Painted Bunting was visiting our feeders in the yard.

 Yes, as long as the sock is full of thistle seed, the Lesser Goldfinches will be providing entertainment.

The male Lesser Goldfinches have achieved their richest coloring.

I'm always shopping for bargain feeders and baths. This one came half-price at Cracker Barrel. The Cardinals love it.

And even the furry-tailed tree rodent enjoys my bargain bird bath.

As long as the Chickadee gets his turn, all is OK.

This Blue Jay graced my blue arrangement with a visit. Bird water dish complements of Tuesday Morning.

The male Ladder-back Woodpecker is still active around the yard.

Welcome our first time visitor, or at least first sighted! This is a Louisiana Water thrush. It constantly bobs its tail up and down.

 My spare moments on the weekends are spent stalking the zinnias for butterflies and hummingbirds.

 The Giant Swallowtail was cycling around regularly, but would only light on the salmon colored zinnia for a second.

 He much-preferred the pinks and reds.

An accidental capture, taking off.

 The Gulf Fritillary was active on Saturday as well.

Caught him checking out the marigolds.

Have not had a lot of luck capturing the purple of the Black-chinned hummer this year.

 Some aerial action at the office feeder.

 An early morning accidental capture, aiming and shooting, hoping for a hit.

 The hummers provide a lot of entertainment early morning on the office deck.

 Other places they seem to share, but not around here!

 The fly was enjoying the feeder until the hummer came.

Sometimes they're just still long enough for a good close-up. Little tongue action there.

 I need an interpretation!

Always on guard.

Sparring.

Ruby, Ruby, Ruby baby! So active, and so hard to get a good shot!

Red hot!

 Lit up!

Ruby out at our Mexican sage, with pollen on the beak. Tough on the other hummers, but fun to watch around the yard.