Anna’s hummingbird
Up, up, up! Arcing fall — SQUEAK!
Courtship ritual.

On Wednesday, February 11, I was assisting BLM geologists in the field when I witnessed a marvelous behavior: the male Anna’s hummingbird courtship display. The tiny bird, less than four inches in size, would hover over a burned manzanita bush then quickly ascend into the air, rising at least 50 feet, and possibly quite more according to bird guides. When he reached altitude, he would pause, then dive in a dramatic, arcing fashion. The speed was tremendous for something so small. At the very bottom of his arc, he would emit a loud ‘squeak!’ which I learned is made by his tail feathers – I still do not understand the mechanics of the sound. Then he would return to hover above the shrub before repeating the cycle. This was one of those wonderful moments when I realize how little I know and see everyday in the world around me, and it was awesome to witness just this one special action.

On a similar note, on Tuesday, February 10, I was hiking for work in the Sacramento River Bend Outstanding Natural Area when I heard an echo of history: sandhill cranes trumpeting to each other as they flew overhead. Even from a great distance, these are magnificent birds, and I wish every visit to the Bend could be accompanied by their bugling call.

For more information about Anna’s Hummingbird or the Sandhill Crane, visit the embedded links or search for The Cornell Lab of Ornithology.

Have a happy Friday the Thirteenth, Valentine’s Day (may your courtship dances be seen and your bugles be heard!), and weekend!