The first neighbor announced today that the Ruby Throated Hummingbird has returned to her feeder!
Each year northerners “snowbirds” travel highways south to the Sunshine State to avoid the cold. The true birds also migrate south. A part of Florida’s eco-tourism relies on its beautiful birds. The hummingbird species is key, since they are such miniature delicate creatures and can be lured for closer viewing with nectar feeders.
Between 11 and 14 types of hummingbirds can be seen in Florida, the most common being the Ruby-Throated hummer. It is actually active in the state year-round.
Birding as eco-tourism is so popular that areas count species. Tampa Bay holds the record for most types and numbers of hummingbirds.
(C) Kelly Jadon, 2021