My chance of a lifetime...to feed a hummer!

[kokanee]

Hi,

Just thought I would share what has been the absolute highlight of my birding experiences so far on a recent trip to Jamaica!
Unfortunately, the hummers were moulting and so were a bit more timid without all their feathers...

This is the Red Billed Streamer-tail Hummingbird (aka Doctor Bird), which is the national bird of Jamaica.
The tail is black with the second to outermost tail feathers elongated to form ‘streamers’ (13 cm or 6 in long), which are often crossed.
The streamers, scalloped and fluted on the inside, create a high whining humming sound in flight. Immature males and males in moult lack the streamers, so we didn't get to see the streamers.


Feeding the Doctor bird


Feeding the two tone black and Purple Mango Hummingbird.


Another bird fed off seed on my leg:




Thanks,
Mar :-)

[Rob'in'To]

That is just freakin' awesome!

[ravynne40]

Incredible, looks like you had a blast ..great shots too

[kokanee]

Thanks, yes it was definitely a great trip/experience....and I probably would have been satisfied if this is all I had done :-)

The weather wasn't the best that day, a bit dull and rainy as a Tropical Storm was moving in, so we had to make the best of shooting conditions.

Cheers,
Mar

[Bird Brain]

Yeah ... what Rob said!   :lol:

[lovetobird]

Too cool! Hand feeding Chickadees is an amazing experience but I can't imagine doing it with a Hummingbirds, I suddenly have an urge to take a trip to Jamaica!

[kokanee]

Too cool! Hand feeding Chickadees is an amazing experience but I can't imagine doing it with a Hummingbirds, I suddenly have an urge to take a trip to Jamaica!

I had a feeling it might entice a few people ;-)
Mar

[Cody]

I've hand fed Woodpeckers, Nuthatches, Chickadees and Squirrels (VERY Interesting story  :lol: )  but never Hummers lol!  Very nice pictures and sounds like a great experience!