Sometimes the sweetest relationships between pet and owner are the most unlikely friendships of all. This month, I had the pleasure of interviewing Scott Williams, whose dogs, Molly and Sabrina, I featured a couple of years ago. His other pets are the hummingbirds that frequent his garden. While he faithfully sets out and keeps their feeders filled, Scott doesn’t name the hummingbirds, as they move around and change areas so often.

 

About 10 years ago, Scott started buying feeders and making nectar for these small friends. He enjoyed watching the aerial powerhouses flying around the community and wanted to give back to the animals that play such an important role in pollinating the beautiful scenery on the isle. That's why he makes sure to give them the very best life, feeding them a special mix of sugar water (½ sugar, ½ water) that they can fill up on as they flit around the garden.

 

The hummingbirds are always quick to thank him too, welcoming him when he brings refilled feeders outside or checks in on the nectar. Once, a hummingbird was so excited to get an energy boost, he flew in through the open screen door and up to the counter while Scott was filling the feeders. Of course, the hummingbird flew right back out again, but not before creating a lasting impression on Scott that his daily visitors really are grateful for his lovely contributions to feeding the hummingbirds.

 

Sometimes, the peacefulness of the island is disturbed by small spats between the many different birds moving through who like to defend their turf by grouping up around the feeders. They'll zoom through the garden very quickly, trying to show each other who's the boss. Also, while they’ve never actually been seen fighting with the neighborhood cat, they’ve had a few close calls, narrowly escaping on multiple occasions but always getting away to enjoy yet another day on this beautiful island!