Shelter in Place, San Francisco, California
June 6, 2020: Ready for Battle
John read somewhere that hummingbirds are the most aggressive creatures per pound in the animal kingdom, and, crazy as it sounds, I don’t doubt he’s right. The fierce and incessant territorial battle around our feeder is something to behold. The tiny hummingbirds have been particularly aggressive this week, dive-bombing each other and us, as they zip through all the gardens on the block. I even saw one chase a very surprised butterfly as if it was a threat. They must be courting. This guy here certainly is, and for the second time this spring.
When the male Anna’s hummingbirds woo a potential mate, they change the angle of their feathers ever-so-slightly to show off the brilliant red that’s underneath. Then they participate in a particularly bizarre ritual designed to impress the ladies. First they rise vertically some 20-30 feet and then they dive full speed, straight down almost to the ground before righting themselves and moving nonchalantly toward the feeder, bristling red for all to see. When they get their fill of sugar water, these tiny birds fly off to a nearby tree, ready to attack any of their rivals that dare to approach the feeder. For us on the deck, it is endless entertainment.
I am so impressed by the dedication, bravery, and openness of the (mostly) young marchers gathering today in ever-greater numbers across America. May they exhibit strength and resolve even and especially as they advocate for peace and justice. Unlike our hummingbirds, may they exemplify all the restraint, kindness, and empathy they hope to see in others. The road ahead is likely to be long and hard, but may they understand that those of us who cheer from somewhere on the edges are glad to see these gentle warriors display their righteous colors.