Saturday, June 2, 2012

A Winged Visitior

For the past few years I've been trying to get a decent picture of the hummingbirds that come to our yard, but the little critters are so fast and skittish I figured it would be impossible.  Then, as Lloyd and I were enjoying our final swim in the pool before heading home to Canada, I spotted one darting from our orange flowers and landing near the top of the ocatilla (stick tree) cactus.  I worked my way to the edge of the pool nearest him - about four feet away - and just watched.  When he didn't show any signs of leaving his perch, I slowly and quietly backed away, got out of the pool and ran for my camera.

These are the pictures I got.









It's almost as if he was posing for me.  He knew I was there but didn't seem to be afraid and stayed there for at least 15 minutes while I admired him and took pictures...a lovely treat on my final day in Arizona.

9 comments:

I'm mostly known as 'MA' said...

What outstanding pictures you were able to get. I have tried with no success at all. What a wonderful parting gift you received. I hope you have a safe trip home to Canada.

Southhamsdarling said...

Hi Pat. Gosh, watching that beautiful little humming bird was well worth getting out of the pool for, wasn't it?! I'm so pleased that you captured the photos that you have been trying to take for so long. A hummingbird is certainly not something that we see over here in England, so it was a treat for me to see these images today!

Mickey said...

Amazing!
I know how long you've been trying to get a close up of this beautiful little guy. Gorgeous bird. And he waited for you to go all the way upstairs to get your camera!

just call me jo said...

I never have a camera when there's a hummingbird posing. We have one that visits the fountain. I just watch. I love your pictures.

Magpie said...

I'm so glad he posed so nicely for you. What a nice way to end your stay: swim in the pool and pictures of your hummer. Wonderful. Travel safely.

Granny Annie said...

You definitely captured some rare photos there. Those little guys are hard to catch at rest.

Anonymous said...

What fabulous photos - and a super end to your stay!!

TARYTERRE said...

FABULOUS photos. that little guy was modeling for you. Knew you wanted a keepsake to take home. have a safe trip back. take care.

JQ said...

Too cute! And way different from our ruby-throated ones.