Hillsborough County - Young Male Rufous/Allen's

[Steve Backes]

I saw my first non-Ruby-throated Hummer of the season this morning, a young male Rufous/Allen's. I was showing my yard to a visitor and as we walked around the house to the backyard I spotted a hummingbird. As I got as better look, the rufous rump and black tipped pointed R1 tail feathers were obvious. I believe he had a few gorget feathers on his cheek. Unfortunately, I didn't see him again. I believe I heard him a couple of times and I saw a number of chases but I wasn't able to find him calmly feeding the rest of the day.

Steve

[Steve Backes]

I did finally find this one again. I also found a second young male selasphorus that was sporting a considerable amount of rufous coloration on his back so I'm confident in identifying him as a Rufous. This second bird has been seen on a few occasions in different areas of the yard. Neither bird has shown any indication of claiming a territory so sightings are very unpredictable.

[Steve Backes]

Just adding a couple of photos of the bird.

Steve