Importance of Oil Rigs for Hummingbirds

Importance of Oil Rigs for Hummingbirds

Importance of Oil Rigs for Hummingbirds, I was doing some research about the migration of the Ruby Throated Hummingbird and found some new information I had not read before.

Ruby-throats do not travel in flocks during hummingbird migration. Instead, each bird follows its own instincts on appropriate departure times and routes.

Scientists believe that each hummingbird begins its migration in response to environmental triggers. One trigger is the changing level and angle of sunlight. Another trigger is believed to be a drop in available natural food. As these signals continue to activate, the hummingbird makes its preparations and eventually departs.

Importance of Oil Rigs for Hummingbirds

On their northward trip, most have reached Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula by February. In this lush jungle, they begin to feast on insects as they prepare for one of the toughest migrations for any bird. Each year, thousands of Ruby-throated Hummingbirds fly over the open water of the Gulf of Mexico rather than follow the longer shoreline route.

These brave little birds will fly non-stop up to 500 miles to reach U.S. shores. It takes approximately 18-22 hours to complete this amazing solitary flight.

Importance of Oil Rigs for Hummingbirds

Some hummingbirds aren’t strong enough, though, as many oil riggers and fishing boat crews can attest.

Every year, exhausted Ruby-throated Hummingbirds take temporary refuge on offshore oil rigs and boats floating in the middle of the Gulf of Mexico. These birds rest a while before bravely launching back into their flight across the open water.

When they return south, Ruby-throated Hummingbirds will follow the same daring migration route in reverse. They’ll charge up their energy reserves in the southern U.S. and then zip across the gulf toward their winter home. That’s two big, non-stop trips each year for Ruby-throats – you have to admire their tenacity!

Importance of Oil Rigs for Hummingbirds

Importance of Oil Rigs for Hummingbirds

Sandra J

34 Replies to “Importance of Oil Rigs for Hummingbirds”

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  2. Fabulous last shot there Sandra! Definitely tough on these little guys and gals and a great example of never letting size be a factor in what you think you cannot accomplish. Our hummers are still here fighting over the feeder (extremely territorial critters. Always sad when they take off for a warmer climate.

    1. Yes, I find it sad as well when the day comes that I don’t see them. It is 39 degrees this morning. They may want to head your way. 😊

    1. 😊 you are welcome Herb, I found this to be very informative. I knew they fly many miles each year, but how they get over the ocean is amazing.

  3. 💎 – Diamond Hard – 💎

    💎 It is a Pity that most humans do not have the same “tenacity” EveryOne; most ‘First World’ Humans concern themselves with ‘Third World’ ‘Problems’ while struggling to find ‘First World’ Solutions EveryBody

    💎 – Diamond Hard – 💎

    …💎💎💎…

  4. I love the education you bestow upon us in your posts. Migration is hard work, so glad the oil rigs are there to help them along. Thank you for sharing!

    1. Yes, right now you I see they are resting more around my place, like they are storing up energy which is a sign they will be leaving soon. Such a long flight for such a tiny bird.

  5. Very interesting and beautiful photographs (as always!)

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