they typically only live 3-5 years
My theory (unproven) is that the offspring return to the places they were born. If my theory holds, that means we've been hosting multiple generations from the originals who started visiting us years ago. I like that thought. It makes them seem more like family. We have 8 stations on our property, 5 water sources and tons of plant life that they love. I love to watch them feed from Coral Bell blossoms. The flowers are tiny-just slightly larger than the head of a pin. To see them hover, then dart in for a sip never ceases to fascinate. In addition, their wings cause the neighboring flowers and stems waft back and forth as they sip from those tiny little targets. Hypnotic.
The backyard aerial dogfights are spectacular. High-speed chases, then one will stop on a dime and just hover like it's frozen in mid-air.
I also love it when they come in for a sip of water when I'm using the garden hose.
Yeah, they are one of Summer's best features, that's for sure.
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