Hummingbird 'uses tail to chirp' (BBC)

[eppur_se_muova]

A species of hummingbird makes a chirping noise with its tail feathers, not its throat, a study using high-speed video has suggested.

The exact source of the noise from male Anna's hummingbirds has been the subject of debate among researchers.

By using specialised footage, a team of US scientists were able to show that male hummingbirds' tail feathers vibrated during high-speed dives.

The findings appear in the Proceedings of the Royal Society B journal.

The loud chirp sound is produced by male Anna's hummingbirds (Calypte anna) as the birds dive towards the ground at speeds that exceed 50mph (80km/h) during their displays for nearby females.


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http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/science/nature/7216230.stm

So the little hotrodders are screeching their brakes to impress the ladies? Truly, there is nothing new under the Sun.

3...2...1...OK, now start the "Bu**sh** always talks out his ass" jokes!

[DesertRat]

1. I love that photo!

I have Anna's hummingbirds that live in our yard year-round. I love to watch them dive and chirping sound that they make as they try to impress the ladies. :)

[dbackjon]

2. i have them year-round as well in chandler

Love them - have about 5 that have been here all year. Nested in the yard as well.

[DesertRat]

3. I keep the feeders filled year-round

But I'm having trouble keeping the woodpeckers out of them!

[Bobbieo]

4. Be sure to keep the feeders filled tis time of year. A frost can wipe out the flowers

but I think the time has passed for a winter freeze. Two years ago I had red-billed hummer from Sonora for several months. The Audobons loved him!!!

[dbackjon]

5. We have one feeder (large glass one) that we keep tucked away

In some palms. That seems to keep the Woodpeckers happy, and they only use that one, leaving the 4 other more open feeders for the hummers.