For weeks now, I’ve been riveted by this hummingbird drama unfolding on LiveCam. Two chicks were born on January 19th, in Orange County, California. One died early on, but Sassy survived. Here’s a picture, taken by the site host earlier today:
By this time, Sassy should have fledged. But 30 days have passed, and while she’s vigorous, she’s nowhere near ready to fly. A few pinfeathers poke out here and there, but she’s as naked as a two-week-old hatchling. A tiny little thing, she’s 1.5 inches from the tip of her beak to her cute little butt. (In comparison, look at the size and feathering of "my" hummingbirds the day the first one fledged.)
On sunny days, Phoebe perches on the edge of the nest, casting shade over Sassy so she doesn’t get sunburned. And until a few days ago, she nested in the evenings, to help keep her hatchling warm. But Phoebe’s growing tired and thin with the extended effort. She can’t go into turpor when she’s tied to the nest. My heart clutched this morning when she disappeared for well over an hour. Instead of feeding her chick at the usual 15-minute intervals, she’s coming less frequently now. Maybe she knows something we don’t?
Hummingbird experts are monitoring the situation. I can’t tear myself away, either. I’m not alone in watching–visitors from all over the world flock to this site every day, voicing their concerns and cheering Phoebe and Sassy on. I think this is a miracle all on its own–that whatever’s going on in the big, broad world out there, our hearts are all aflutter about two tiny hummingbirds in a walnut-sized nest.
ETA: As I’m writing this, I see an announcement that they’re taking her to a hummingbird rehabber near Disneyland. Oh, I feel that empty nest syndrome coming on! But no matter my own wishes, I put my trust in Mother Nature. In her infinite wisdom, she takes care of her own in ways that we can’t always understand.
I’m not brave enough to watch something like this but I am so glad people around the world are sharing this journey together. We share a universal connection that cannot be denied.
She is beautiful, Tracy. I think she just needs more time to develop. Experts say this may be tied to the heavy rains, which washed away the bugs (protein) tiny birds need to help grow their pinfeathers.
She is beautiful, Tracy. I think she just needs more time to develop. Experts say this may be tied to the heavy rains, which washed away the bugs (protein) tiny birds need to help grow their pinfeathers.
I’m not brave enough to watch something like this but I am so glad people around the world are sharing this journey together. We share a universal connection that cannot be denied.
My heart would break if I watched this. Little Sassy and Phoebe both will be included in my prayers!
That’s a powerful gift, Julia. Thank you.
I think you’d be uplifted by watching the site, now that Sassy’s in the experienced, loving hands of rehabbers. Also, Phoebe is sitting on her nest!! There’s chatter among the moderators about her perhaps getting ready to lay more eggs. The circle of life continues.
I might try it. I just have a hard time when little creatures don’t make it. *sigh*
a hard time when little creatures don’t make it
You and me both!
But I think Sassy’s going to make it. She’s held up really well in the face of adversity. Given more time (and loving attention), I think she’ll grow feathers and fly.
Re: a hard time when little creatures don't make it
It is always important to think positively! I will be doing so for Sassy! I’ll also count on you to keep us updated! *hugs*
I might try it. I just have a hard time when little creatures don’t make it. *sigh*
That’s a powerful gift, Julia. Thank you.
I think you’d be uplifted by watching the site, now that Sassy’s in the experienced, loving hands of rehabbers. Also, Phoebe is sitting on her nest!! There’s chatter among the moderators about her perhaps getting ready to lay more eggs. The circle of life continues.
My heart would break if I watched this. Little Sassy and Phoebe both will be included in my prayers!
I’m glad they made the decision to give the little one more of a chance. Sometimes all the babies need are a little more time and attention which the mom is just too stretched to provide.
People often ask me why rehabbers even bother. Now you see why 🙂 So many people all over watching and cheering and CARING. It’s a beautiful thing 🙂
I’ve always admired your work, but this makes me appreciate you even more. The world is watching Sassy, hoping and praying that she’ll survive and thrive. Not as many people are privy to your rescue efforts, but they’re just as important, your animals just as precious.
*thanks you*
I’ve always admired your work, but this makes me appreciate you even more. The world is watching Sassy, hoping and praying that she’ll survive and thrive. Not as many people are privy to your rescue efforts, but they’re just as important, your animals just as precious.
*thanks you*
Oh no, little Sassy! 🙁
We’ll hold out hope, won’t we? Call me PollyAnna, but I can’t help but think that our collective good wishes will help.
We’ll hold out hope, won’t we? Call me PollyAnna, but I can’t help but think that our collective good wishes will help.
Oh no, little Sassy! 🙁