A hummingbird in the hand . . .

My morning started like every sunny summer morning, with a cup of coffee in my garden. But things soon took an unusual turn. I noticed a baby hummingbird struggling to stay in the air as his tried to drink from the flowers in my garden. It wasn't that he couldn't fly. He could, but he seemed exhausted.


I decided to observe for a while and only offer assistance if necessary. He buzzed to one of my planters and slipped between the plants and the side of the planter. Although he was giving it all he had, he couldn't quite make it back out. Just as I approached to offer a helping hand, he lifted above the edge and flew to my raised perennial bed. Concerned, I continued to watch.


Eventually, it became apparent that he didn't have the strength to carry on. As he perched on a purple coneflower as wasps swarmed him and he couldn't chase them away. At this point, I decided to bring a feeder to him. When he tried to drink, I noticed a wobble and thought perhaps I would lose him. He lifted his head and chirped a tiny chirp that touched my heart. I reached out my  hand and gently closed it around the tiny body.


With my free hand, I brought the feeder to within reach and was amazed to see this tiny bird begin to drink. We stood for a while, my hummingbird and me. I loosened my hand and he made no attempt to escape.


Slowly we made our way to the garden chair where we sat for close to 30 minutes as he alternated between drinking and resting. At one point, he even cleaned his beak on my finger. I can't say for certain, but when he cocked his head and looked me in the eye I think he spoke to me.


Eventually, he lifted his little wings and buzzed away. He has been back once for another drink and I can hear him chirping in the brush. 


Unfortunately, I didn't get pictures, but the experience was amazing. Hopefully, he will return so that I can get some pictures later . . . but until then, I am content to have held this tiny jewel in my hand.


                                                            Until Next Time . . . HAPPY GARDENING!