Unexpected Omnivore

Ruby-throated Hummingbird at Wallkill River National Wildlife Refuge – Winding Waters Trail, 08/25/18.

Unexpected for me at least. Until yesterday,  I hadn’t really ever given it much thought. I guess I always just assumed that Ruby-throated Hummingbirds fed on nectar alone, but they are considered ominvores (eat food of both plant and animal origin), and they supplement  their nectar diet with arthropods, including insects.

16 thoughts on “Unexpected Omnivore”

  1. Great shot and interesting feeding behavior recorded. Had Baird’s sandpiper at Cape May on Friday and got up to Waretown to see the adult Miss. Kite feeding a juv.

    1. Thanks Bruce, and congrats on the Baird’s and the Mississippi Kites (a bird I feel we will see again in OC sometime soon – hopefully?). Matt

    1. Thanks Liza! I was hoping to chat a little bit yesterday morning, but you left heading in the other direction. Next time! Matt

  5. I think he’s smiling! Cute picture! Well, it’s cute until the bug disappears!

  6. OUTSTANDING shot, Matt.
    Be sure to submit it to many of the birding journals, at least one f them should be delighted to feature it.

    Right place, right time and everything set just right – – – as usual for you! CONGRATULATIONS!

  7. Matt, what an amazing photo! May I post it on my Facebook, acknowledged, of course?

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