Kenn,
Great shots!! Your 'prince' is a 'princess' (note the white tips on tail feathers), and no, she doesn't look tuff enuff to reign.

Doh! LOL
Thanks ctnchpr,

I've obviously got a lot to learn. This isn't the first time I've misidentified a bird... especially a juvenile. I was judging by her actions on the perch... she certainly seemed to be trying to play the part. And with about 6-10 hummers buzzing around the yard, none were challenging her this morning.

Kenn

Spectacular photos!

Absolutely perfect!!!!
Konrad

Kenn,

I'm afraid I was a little too hasty when identifying your hummer as a female. I've been making close-up videos of my flock, and noticed the subadult males had white tips on their tail feathers. I could find nothing in my newer field guides to illustrate this, so I dug out my 40 year old guide (held together w/duct tape), and it showed the immature male with white tips. Sorry 'bout the confusion.

BTW, how long did the little boss wannabe hold claim to the stick?

Hi ctnchpr,

As of this morning "little boss" is still on the stick...;)

But I must admit I still have my doubts. I don't think we have any adult males left around here now, and this one certainly may not be the only hummer to perch there. We've still got at least 6 chasing each other about, and as fast as they move I'm usually unable to tell them apart.
Anyway this looks like the same one to me:
{{gwi:999575}}
And, although this one seems to sit there longest, and bristles and gestures the most...

I've seen others actually sit at the feeder and drink less than two feet away during his (or her?) displays.
Like this one (who's maybe even more likely a male??):
{{gwi:999576}}

I just know they're a lot of fun to watch. :)

Kenn