Before starting my phenology project I did observe this clearing and was astonished by the amount of Ruby-Throated Hummingbirds. They are the only hummingbird species in Vermont and will migrate south towards the end of September. I have seen them here at Centennial starting September 2 and the last time I saw them was Sept. 16. They are officially gone marking the end of summer. While they were here they were feeding upon the sweet nectars of jewelweed flowers. With their long proboscis-like beak they penetrate deep into the flower. With their active life-style they must consume up to four times the size of their body weight in nectar. Hopefully they find more in the south. Until they come back in May there is a lot to see at this Sumac Clearing.
Ruby-Throated Hummingbird Perched 9/5/18
© Chris Liazos
Ruby-Throated Hummingbird Drinking out of Jewelweed Plant 9/4/18
© Chris Liazos