This is a fledgling ruby throat-- that is the only type we have in our midwestern areas. (all the other hummingbirds are in the West and S.West.) Thanks for the compliment.

We also have the cranes. But we only saw one this year.
But in the past about 4 yrs ago across the bay, there was a nest which had fledglings, and we heard the commotion as the adults taught the young ones how to hunt in the marshy water for food. They were making the strangest noises. We couldn't see them, but they carried on for over an hour. We saw some folks come down to the shore during this and they could see better. I wouldn't think it was a mating ritual that late in summer? Our area also has blue herons and night herons, as well. I found a night heron sitting on the edge of our pontoon one early morning. We also have lots of kingfishers..many more this season. I have some other pics in my album up now too. I managed a pileated shot this year which is very rare since they don't come near people often.