Sass - Where are you in Lakeland? I live here too and seeing an Allen's is very rare. I don't know if you know Joe M who lives in Christina but he had one a couple winters ago. Our area usually gets hummers starting around now as migrants and then those that come in Jan. or so stay through till about April. A few of us here in Lakeland have had banders come and band and id the birds as part of a 10 year study to see where they migrate to in the summer. If you are interested, please let me know and I can get in touch with one of them. Rufous are similiar to Allens, and friend and I both had one last winter. Please contact me through GW. I also posted about recording sightings through Audubon. I am not doubting your id of your bird, just really excited cause I know it is unsual for them to be here. I know it is something that should be documented. Congrats on your hummers!

Think I have at least 6-8 now.Some small males and think a few females and one larger male that is a real showoff and kind of a bully.He buzzes louder then the rest and likes to buzz right in front of you with wings outspread and red throat showing.He spent most of today chasing after the others to get them away from the feeders right over my head while I was potting up some flowers.Guess I'll put another feeder out back.Tried to watch the video of the nest but only got sound and a black screen.

Congrats! It seems that the first time you have the good fortune of a visit, it's a mesmerizing experience. Not that subsequent visits are any less special of course. We also had our first encounter last week. After being inspired to create some sort of hummer-friendly space after our visit to the Arizona Sanora Desert Museum last winter, I was beginning to wonder if my work had been in vain. Then, as I was out weeding in the afternoon, I heard what sounded like the biggest bumblebee in the world beside me. Somewhat concerned, I turned to see a very large ruby-throat hovering in front of the coral honeysuckle vine. Shortly after it left, we were visited by a much smaller, bright green ruby. It stayed for several minutes, feeding on the honeysuckle, cardinal flower and various salvias we've "installed." Here's to more visits and further encounters with the little winged wonders!

Congratulations. It was a he? Is this the time that you start seeing them? Can I ask where you are in Florida?