Aren't they great? Often when mine show up, they will actually peek through the window and balcony doors or rise up high above the feeder and other plants to get an overhead view through my door to see if "that red blob with the flashy light thing (camera)" is there before zooming over to the feeder or plants. Occassionally if I'm out there or come out, they will come over and look at me (I often wear red out there as I have a red tank top and shorts that I lounge around in). And I've actually had the camera with me when they have done this, with me fumbling trying to get them centered in the viewfinder so I can snap. I have yet to be successful getting a closeup from that dead on position, despite them giving me plenty of time to do it!

I don't know if anyone has done any significant studies of their behavior with us, although aggression and mating behaviors have been looked at. I guess the general consensus is that they are inquisitive and always on the lookout for sources of food and want to make sure that if they find it, that they do all that they can to protect their stash from intruders (including us - although we often supply food and nectar sources to them)!

This is my first year watching them I think it was two years ago I saw my first live one. Besides this and watching the PANDA cam I'm not doing much of anything anymore LOL

Their "chirps" are the cutest sound in the world. I think my favorite thing is when they hover, with the tail flair, a foot in front of your face, chirping and checking out the situation. I should add that I, also, have never sucessfully been able to snap a good photograph when they are doing this, despite many opportunities. Too much fun. Thanks for posting.

Ruth