Hummingbird, Bee & Butterfly

Not having been out of late I could not pass up another beautiful spring day. This afternoon’s outing was to the South Arm Marshes. In addition to being one of my favourite spots for Bushtits, it has lots more to offer. The objective today was Anna’s Hummingbird as there is a pair I see regularly in one area. Undoubtedly there is a nest nearby, I just have not spotted it yet.

Anna's Hummingbird
Anna’s Hummingbird

It did not take long before I got glimpses of both and then this distant shot of the female. From past experience I know they feed along the trail, so I set up on some flowering Salmonberry. As luck would have it she landed on the brambles beside me and then fed on some other Salmonberry within arms reach. All I could do was watch and smile while laughing to myself.

Bumblebee
Bumblebee

The only thing that showed up at the Salmonberry I was set up on was this Bumblebee. Can’t you just picture the Anna’s there instead ;-)

Mourning Cloak
Mourning Cloak

Another consolation photo was this Mourning Cloak butterfly. Spring time has lots to offer in addition to birds.

Bushtit

With the arrival of spring each year there is something I always try to photograph. One of natures many little marvels, the Bushtit nest. These intricate woven nests of spider webs, lichen, moss and other plants always fascinate me. One reliable area over the years for getting photos has been the South Arm Marshes.

Bushtit
Bushtit

I was fortunate to get a pair of Bushtit active at a nest this afternoon. Here the female is arriving with some moss.

Bushtit
Bushtit

Once finished inside she pauses briefly at the entrance before leaving to gather some more nesting material. Only took a few shots, but I was happy with these.