So the hummingbirds have been fruitful, and have multiplied. The local Annas have hatched a brood and are training the young about the feeders and how to deal with the jealous tourist rufous. Somebody has learned, since there were about 15 birds on the feeders or hovering nearby, six and seven on the feeders plus the helicopters. I had added a feeder for a total two, in hopes of cutting back on the amount of conflict, but I guess the Annas need to learn about resolving conflict as well. My oldest llama has been robbing herself on the fencing but as near as I can tell, none of the fiber has appeared in nests; based on the population explosion, it was too late for nests.
The ravens came through the other day, also with their young ones. No noticeable difference in size, but two of the ravens acting like babies, crying with their mouths open and fluttering their wings for attention. Mom (and dad?) was annoyed, and the young ones finally foraged for themselves. Last year I had seen a raven raid somebody's nest for their young, a real circle of life moment that I hope I never have to witness again, so this was a much more diverting encounter. One year the mated raven couple stood in the pasture and groomed one another, a very tender encounter I would much rather reflect upon.
The owls have also been heard at dusk quite a lot, but I have not sighted them this year (yet). But they have ruffled the alpacas who have even been spooked into flight once or twice. Surprisingly, I have not found any raven or owl feathers. Do they pick up after themselves?
