[Bristol-Birds] Winter hummingbirds and feeder freeze-up

From: "Wallace Coffey" <jwcoffey@xxxxxxxxxx>
To: "Bristol-birds" <bristol-birds@xxxxxxxxxxxxx>
Date: Tue, 9 Nov 2010 20:55:23 -0500
----- Original Message ----- 
From: Joe Lively 
To: jwcoffey@xxxxxxxxxx 
Sent: November 09, 2010 07:07
Subject: Fwd: Winter hummingbirds and feeder freeze-up






Begin forwarded message:


  From: Joe Lively <joelively@xxxxxxx>
  Date: November 8, 2010 11:27:56 PM EST
  To: wallace@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
  Subject: Fwd: Winter hummingbirds and feeder freeze-up









      Photo by Joe Lively,


      The phenomenon of winter hummers is certainly a way to keep the magic 
going all year long. As you likely know, analysis of banding data reveals that 
many western hummingbirds have been opting for South-eastern over wintering for 
some time. Public� awareness of winter hummers is slowly increasing as well.�


      There is an easy, effective and inexpensive way to prevent the sugar 
solution from freezing.�An ordinary heat lamp reflector may be used, but 
substitute a heat "Salamander" for the heat lamp bulb (See photo above). 
Salamanders are a ceramic element that emits just heat energy, not light. It is 
also somewhat resistant� to moisture splashing that would immediately cause 
violent shattering of a glass bulb. I am not aware of the rated life of these 
elements, but I have been using mine for five years with no burn outs, 
yet.��Simply hang the reflector from a section of coat hanger wire and then 
suspend the feeder about 8-10 inches below the element with another section of 
coat hanger wire wire (The feeder shown above has its own brass suspension 
rod). The heat is gentle and does not pose a scorching danger to the bird.


      Normally, a 1:4 ratio of sugar water will remain liquid until about 28 
degrees F.� A 100 Watt ceramic Salamander will be sufficient to keep the 
solution liquid down to about zero degrees. Below that, either elect to bring 
the feeder inside for the night (replace at dawn) or go to a higher wattage, 
ie: 150 watt. �"Salamander" is a brand name. The product is available from MOR 
ELECTRIC HEATING ASSOC.� TOLL FREE 1-800-442-2581� or online ordering:� 
sales@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx� No, I do not work for or derive any commission from 
any association with this company, but I wish I had a dollar for every referral.


      Over the past 5 years, we have enjoyed 6 winter hummers. Change that.� 
Saw #7 this past Saturday, 6th of Nov.� Five only stayed one week or so and 
then moved on. Part of the problem seemed to be the agressiveness of remaining 
Ruby-throats. This was particularly true when we had two Calliopes visit at the 
same time. Those poor tiny birds were mobbed and driven from the feeders by the 
much larger RTs. We managed to get photos of most of those restless transients 
before competition forced them to move on.�


      Once one has this wonderful experience, it tends to change your 
perspective and draw individuals together like the bonds of a fraternal 
organization.


      May you always enjoy the sound of humming wings.


      Joe Lively
      Jetersville, Va. 

      Website: www.hummingbirdsandflowers.net 

      Website: www.forgottenheritage.net


      �
[Bristol-Birds] Winter hummingbirds and feeder freeze-up

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