Nesting season for the hummers; today we take a look at the Rufous-breasted Hermit's nesting. Unlike the Black-throated Mango, Rufous-breasted Hermits are a bit shy and like to stay under the radar. They usually wait until the coast is clear at the feeders or a flower. Since they are not often in the picture trying to get everyones attention, this Rufous-breasted behavior stood out. I saw her more often at the feeder than usual and since nesting season had started for them, I knew that she might be up to something. And yes she was .... near one of the feeders at the lodge on August 19, 2016 I saw her nest right under one of the coconut tree palm leaf. Quite unnoticeable too. As you can see in the picture above it is not easy for the female during the incubation period. With her head facing the nest and slightly tilted backwards this hermit was sitting on her eggs. I was a bit curious and wanted to see the little ones appear but at the same time I didn't want to disturb her too. Since I was also observing other hummers' nest (Black-throated Mango's) I divided my time equally between these 3 nests. Sadly I didn't witness the outcome as it appeared that she built her nest on an inconvenient spot. During that time a Spectacled Owl showed up every night and was sitting right above the same spot. All that shaking and the stress of the Owl's presence made that the hermit decided to abandon her nest. Usually when the female does that she often makes another nest after a short period. Now let's see if I can spot that one too. If not, I'll wait until I see the nestlings nearby.
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