Virginia Bluebells are one of my favorite Missouri native ephemerals. I look forward to their graceful beauty and to watch who visit them. Bumblebees are often tucking into the blossoms, gathering pollen.

4-24-14 Bumblebee at Virginia Bluebells

The first female hummingbird arrived yesterday and visited the feeders several times.

Today, she hovered at the feeder but didn't drink. She perched a few moments in a small elm, considering her options.

Ruby-throated Hummingbird, female

She decided the Bluebells were the Blue Flower Special of the day.

Ruby-throated Hummingbird, female Ruby-throated Hummingbird, female Ruby-throated Hummingbird, female Ruby-throated Hummingbird, female Ruby-throated Hummingbird, female

In about 30 seconds, she was off! But those few seconds made my day. It's so rewarding to see a hummingbird enjoy a native flower that one has planted with her in mind! I wonder if she has found the Red Buckeye (Aesculus pavia) yet? 

4-25-14 Red Buckeye in bloom