For a time, The Icon considered the ruby-throated hummingbird as its mascot. These are fiesty little creatures and fun to watch.

It's taken several years to attract backyard hummingbirds at 226 Grove St. But the wait was worth it.

The birds are very territorial. That means when two males get together there are lots of aerial bombardments and chases through the yard. Although small, they make lots of chattering noise. Even Ike, the Icon dog, listens and watches the show.

It takes three hummingbird feeders in the back yard of the Icon to attract ruby-throated hummingbirds. There are at least four birds that frequent these feeders. Here are some views photographed last week. The Grove Street 'birds like the 5 p.m. feeding best of all. Necter is one part sugar to four parts water, boiled, then cooled. Contrary to what you might believe it is not recommended to place red dye in the juice. The necter needs to be changed at least twice a week. If it is not changed it ferments. You don't wan't half-crocked hummingbirds zipping around the yard.

To photograph these guys it helps to have a tripod, 300 mm lens and feeding stations within 25 feet of the camera. Click on any of the images to enlarge them.

Watch for more views to be added soon.