When black raspberries got ripe, neighborhood grownups and children gathered to gobble down undisciplined berries warm with sun and eye each other and laugh for sheer happiness.

As a hedge, they were a mistake. As a treat, they were fabulous.

The main hedge facing street was a row of Nanking cherry bushes about eight feet high. In early spring they were covered with tiny pearl-like buds and white blooms. In summer they glistened with red cherries within lush green growth. The cherries tasted like a cross between pie cherries and sweet cherries. They were good.

One summer day I looked out window and saw a little boy coming down street. I didn't recognize him, but he apparently recognized ripe cherries when he saw them. He stopped and stared at bushes, then moved in closer. I was about to go to door and tell him to take all cherries he wanted, but then I realized he was trying a new maneuver. He turned around facing street and began to back up to bushes. Aha! I thought. That kid's had some education that didn't come from books.

His technique was pretty good. He looked blandly into distance as branches behind him jiggled up and down. When his hands were filled with cherries, he started off running. And I ran too -- to door. I meant to call out, "Little boy! Little boy! Come back." But then I realized that would just make him run faster.

I wanted to say, "You can eat my cherries all afternoon, if you like." But by that time, in a splendid burst of speed, he had rounded corner and was out of sight.

You can come back any time, little boy.

What Materials Should Hummingbird Houses or Feeders be made of?

Hummingbird feeders and houses are usually made of acrylic or glass. They are also available in wood and plastic; however these do not work as effectively and may cause harm to birds (slivers and cuts). Hummingbird houses and feeders come in a variety of sizes and shapes and usually contain numerous feeding areas throughout feeder.

Where Should I Put My Hummingbird Feeder?

Ideally, a hummingbird feeder should be hung near a garden with bright flowers and plants. A flowery location is most likely to attract attention of hummingbirds. For your viewing pleasure, you may want to hang your feeder in a place that can be easily seen from your home. For example a hummingbird feeder hung in front of a window can be admired all day.

How Much Do Hummingbird Feeders Cost?

The styles and designs differ so much that it’s difficult to determine a specific price. Hummingbird feeders and houses can cost anywhere from $10 to $50 - depending on style, design and features.