The Guardian

He protects his home with great diligence, prepared to repel any invaders bent on attacking his security. He is armed because his size alone is not adequate to defend what is important to him. His weapons will serve him well as he goes forth to protect his loved ones from those who are larger and will come in greater numbers than he.

He knows there will be no help from others of his kind, who, like him, have learned that it is only his determination and defensive skill sets that will ensure his ultimate survival. He does not care if his actions will be viewed as politically correct or even legal; he will be ready for battle at any time.

His aggressiveness is shown by his manner of dress. He is boldly attired in a neat, form fitting black suit, with a splash of crimson at his throat. He relies heavily on situational awareness and constant vigilance, but never wears headgear. He’s ready to spring into action quickly, efficiently, and without mercy. Speed and agility are his ”go-to” weapons and they are supported by an aggressive attitude that all intruders will be forced to deal with; mostly to their regret and dismay.

There is nothing in their world that could have prepared them to deal with this bold warrior. Who is he?

He…is the young male Hummingbird that patrols and defends the back yard near the feeder on our deck! He protects the rich red nectar that is placed in the feeder and he has more than repaid us for our expense in the form of high entertainment, aerial combat, and great courage.

In one set of battles, we observed him dispatch several of his brothers, a couple of wasps that came to poach, and the State bird of Missouri…the loathsome bluebird. (in my opinion) He is aggressive enough to dive bomb intruders and will actually strike them in mid air with enough force that we can hear the little bodies collide!

The only individual allowed to partake of his food source is a drab and fat chick that he apparently likes a lot. She is dull brown, a little bigger than he is and must be a real Hummingbird centerfold model as she is the only one he allows to use "his" feeder. I’m guessing she is bigger because while he spends most of his time defending the territory, she spends most of her time eating!

In about three weeks, they will all be gone; south bound for the winter. Some will migrate as far as South America. They will stop along the way and take on extra protein in the form of a dwindling supply of insects.

Our little guy may even cross the Gulf of Mexico in a non stop flight of 20 hours and covering over 500 miles; losing more than half of his weight! Considering he weighs around 1/8th of an ounce now, this is significant.

He will fly alone at about tree top level, singly, as a flock of Hummingbirds may attract the unwanted attention of large winged predators. What will he eat or drink during this flight? How will he rest? What is his average air speed? I don’t know.

I just hope he has a safe journey and comes back next year.

PB