Back in the early summer, when hummingbirds are known to arrive for the season, we hung this feeder off the crow’s nest deck (the deck that’s really, really high up and overlooks the lake).
The hummingbirds were pretty fun to sight — once in a while.
But now, apparently there is a hummingbird version of Gangs of New York going on. Humming-gangs of Raccoon Lake. Over the past few months, six or eight of the little guys (humming-girls don’t act like this) have discovered the feeder and now claim it as their own turf. From sun-up to sun-down, they swarm and fight over the feeder, zipping and squeaking at each other. And hardly any of them actually gets time to sip. Sheesh.
I can’t even read, for all of their attitude. And in addition, these little spitfires are now attacking our American flag, the red deck chairs, and the red party lights down at the summer kitchen. I wore a pink sun-dress yesterday, and just about killed one when it “attacked” me, by reflex-swatting at it with my Kindle.
But the funniest part about all of this? On our to-bring list, I wrote to bring more feeders, so there’s more territory to spread around. And that makes me a crazy hummingbird lady. And for the last 20 years in publishing, I’ve rolled my eyes at the customers who buy hummingbird notecards, fridge notepads, journals, and calendars. Don’t these people have anything better to do, than think about hummingbirds?
Hm. No. Why should we?
ginnygram 
So funny. One was spotted in our backyard today. I didn’t see it, but I was just wondering earlier (honest!) about buying a real feeder. After reading your post, might think a little further about it. They’ll be attacking the neighbors!
They are sooooooooo cute!!!! BUT never knew they were so territorial. Thank goodness your buying more feeders, I really want you to make it through the “gang” wars;)