Ruby & Cardinal

My partner and I grow native plants in our yard. In August and September when the Cardinal Flowers are in bloom, there is much activity as hummingbirds prepare for fall migration. A young male Ruby-throated Hummingbird became a regular visitor to our yard last September. The white stamens in the unique anatomy of the Cardinal Flower catch the hummer's head feathers as he backs away, depositing pollen for the next bloom. The ruffled feathers on his head can be clearly seen in this image.