Hummer Fall Feeding Frenzy

Two weeks ago we arrived back in Seabrook, TX after spending the summer in Maine.  We put out a couple of hummingbird feeders, and within less than an hour several birds had discovered it. 

Ruby-throated Hummingbirds at feeder on our apartment balcony in Seabrook, TX 10/09/2011. 

Within a couple of days we had at times a dozen birds buzzing around the three feeders on our small 2nd floor balcony.   Just as dawn is breaking they appear in large numbers and feed together relatively peacefully.  Later in the day, they are apparently somewhat satiated, and spend more time chasing each other. 

In the past we have never seen so many at one time.    I wonder if the drought this year is forcing them to search urban/suburban locations for adequate food to make their fall migration.

Female Ruby-throated Hummingbird sitting at a feeder on apartment balcony, Seabrook, TX 10/08/2011

 As the feeders are on a north-facing covered balcony, the lighting is not great for high speed photography of these quick little birds.  Using high ISO values is necessary, which results in more noise (grainy appearance) than I would like.

Female Ruby-throated Hummingbird landing at a feeder on apartment balcony, Seabrook, TX 10/08/2011

Female Ruby-throated Hummingbird sitting at feeder on apartment balcony, Seabrook, TX 10/08/2011

Most appear to be females.  I have noticed only one with a partial ruby throat - perhaps an immature male. 

Ruby-throated Hummingbird sitting at feeder on apartment balcony, Seabrook, TX 10/08/2011.   This may be an immature male - note partial ruby throat.

They are now consuming over a cup per day of sugar solution (4 parts water: 1 part pure cane sugar - nothing else).  We hope this helps them have a successful flight to Mexico.  Many go direct 600 mi. across the gulf.