Rufous Hummingbird

@Helen: It baffles me that you haven't encountered these animals in your many travels. They are primarily buzzy, with a large component of chirpy. "Hummingbird" seems a kind misnomer. Mother Nature...

@amy: Thanks.

This was in the front yard, but the colony lives in a tree just over the fence next door. They wake me each morning with their chattering.

The locals aren't all that common, but are quite curious and tend to approach at an alarming rate, with no sense of personal space.

I thought I might pull out a second camera body with a macro lens for the more proximate shots, but I'm dubious of my hand speed versus the hummingbirds flight. Perhaps you are quicker. Bring the whole bag, and stay still for five minutes. You'll see what I mean.

I eagerly await your success in BC.

@Sherri: Thanks very much for the compliment.
It seems that all you need do is sit still to snap the locals. They are remarkably fearless.