The timing of deploying nectar feeders for hummingbirds is a critical factor in successfully attracting and supporting these birds. The act involves placing a feeder, typically filled with a sugar-water solution, in a location accessible to hummingbirds, ideally before their arrival during spring migration.
Early placement offers arriving birds a reliable food source after their long journey and establishes the feeder as a consistent resource throughout the breeding season. Providing readily available sustenance reduces their energy expenditure in searching for natural nectar sources, especially crucial during periods when natural blooms are scarce, and aids in their overall survival and reproductive success. Historically, observing local hummingbird migration patterns has informed the optimal feeder deployment timeframe.
Therefore, understanding regional hummingbird migratory habits and local weather patterns will facilitate a better understanding of the factors determining the opportune moment to prepare and position these supplemental feeding stations.
1. Spring Arrival
Spring arrival marks a pivotal period for hummingbird populations, directly influencing the most effective timing for feeder deployment. This arrival initiates after their long migration from wintering grounds, leaving the birds in a state of high energy demand. Placing feeders before or during the earliest anticipated arrival timeframe provides immediate access to a vital food source. The early availability of nectar can be critical for replenishing depleted energy reserves, thereby enhancing survival rates upon arrival. The absence of readily accessible food can stress the birds, increasing mortality, particularly if natural nectar sources are not yet available due to weather conditions or delayed flowering. For example, consider the Ruby-throated Hummingbird’s arrival in the eastern United States. Early feeders, placed in anticipation of their arrival, serve as life-saving resources.
The timing of arrival can vary from year to year based on factors such as weather patterns along the migration routes. Unusually cold or stormy weather can delay migration, whereas warmer conditions may prompt an earlier arrival. Therefore, monitoring weather patterns and historical data from local birding groups and ornithological databases becomes valuable. Adjusting feeder placement schedules based on this information ensures readiness for their arrival, regardless of seasonal variances. It is important to check for presence of hummingbirds.
Understanding spring arrival as a primary component to the broader strategy of feeder placement yields significant benefits for hummingbird conservation and observation. Failing to align feeder availability with their arrival puts the birds at a disadvantage. Successful feeder deployment requires ongoing monitoring and adaptability to ensure the availability of necessary support during the critical spring arrival period.
2. Local Migration
Local migratory patterns are intrinsically linked to determining the optimal timing for deploying hummingbird feeders. As hummingbirds migrate within a specific region, their presence and feeding needs fluctuate. Feeders must be in place to coincide with the arrival of these transient populations to provide essential sustenance. Delaying feeder placement beyond the peak of migration effectively eliminates the feeder as a valuable resource for a significant portion of the migrating birds.
The direction and timing of local migrations are influenced by factors such as altitude, availability of natural food sources, and breeding cycles. For example, some hummingbird species may move to higher elevations during the summer months to access blooming wildflowers. Understanding these specific local patterns necessitates observing the timing of flowering plants and monitoring the presence of hummingbirds in various habitats. Data from local ornithological societies and birding communities can provide invaluable insights into these migration patterns, guiding feeder placement strategy.
Recognizing and responding to local migratory patterns is essential for optimizing the effectiveness of hummingbird feeders. Early deployment, guided by observational data, maximizes the benefits for migrating birds. Moreover, continued monitoring of feeder activity in conjunction with local bloom cycles ensures that supplemental feeding remains appropriately timed, providing the needed support without disrupting natural foraging behaviors. Misunderstanding migration could lead to mistiming or an inappropriately placed feeder.
3. First Blooms
The emergence of first blooms within a local ecosystem serves as a critical indicator influencing the appropriate timing for the deployment of hummingbird feeders. These initial blooms signify the availability of natural nectar sources, the primary food for hummingbirds. The relationship is one of supplementary support: feeders are most valuable when natural nectar is scarce, such as prior to or immediately following the peak bloom season. An example is the flowering of early spring plants like honeysuckle; their nectar indicates conditions suitable for hummingbird arrival, suggesting feeder placement becomes relevant. Therefore, observing first blooms informs decisions on feeder deployment, ensuring their availability coincides with periods of limited natural food resources.
The extent of flowering also plays a significant role. A limited number of early blooms might not provide sufficient sustenance for the entire hummingbird population, especially after migration. In such cases, supplemental feeding via well-maintained feeders can be crucial. Conversely, a profusion of early blooms may suggest that feeder deployment can be delayed or adjusted to minimize dependence on artificial nectar. The practical significance of this understanding is evident in resource management and conservation efforts, where the goal is to support hummingbird populations without disrupting natural feeding behaviors. Proper assessment involves comparing the number of blooms with local hummingbird counts.
In summary, the emergence and abundance of first blooms directly impact the necessity and timing of feeder deployment. Monitoring these natural indicators allows for a strategic approach to hummingbird feeding, maximizing support when needed most and minimizing intervention when natural resources are sufficient. This approach presents challenges, requiring consistent observation and regional knowledge. Nevertheless, aligning feeder deployment with bloom cycles represents a responsible strategy towards hummingbird conservation, ensuring supplemental feeding complements, rather than replaces, natural ecosystems. Understanding this synchronization is key for successful hummingbird support.
4. Last Frost
The occurrence of the last frost represents a significant environmental event directly influencing the decision of when to deploy hummingbird feeders. Frost, by definition, involves temperatures at or below freezing, which can damage or destroy emerging plant life, including the flowers that provide natural nectar sources for hummingbirds. A late frost can severely limit nectar availability, creating a critical need for supplemental feeding. Therefore, considering the anticipated last frost date is essential to ensure that feeders are not deployed prematurely, only to be rendered necessary by a subsequent cold snap that damages natural food sources.
The implications of ignoring the last frost are twofold. First, premature feeder deployment can result in the sugar-water solution freezing, potentially damaging the feeder itself and rendering it unusable. Second, and more importantly, the sudden loss of natural nectar due to frost creates a period of heightened energy demand for hummingbirds, particularly those arriving during spring migration. Early access to supplemental food sources following a late frost can be vital for their survival. An example would be a sudden temperature drop in early April, killing early blooms; feeders become a key source of food after this event. Monitoring weather forecasts and historical frost data for a specific region is therefore a prerequisite for informed feeder placement.
In conclusion, the last frost is a key determinant in the timing of hummingbird feeder deployment. A strategy considering likely last frost dates balances the desire to provide early support with the need to protect feeders and ensure that supplemental feeding truly complements the natural food cycle. Challenges include the unpredictable nature of weather patterns and the need for accurate local forecasting. Nonetheless, informed feeder placement, guided by an awareness of frost risks, contributes significantly to successful hummingbird support and conservation.
5. Consistent Monitoring
Consistent monitoring is an indispensable component in determining the appropriate timing for deploying hummingbird feeders. It bridges the gap between theoretical guidelines and the dynamic realities of local ecosystems, migration patterns, and hummingbird behavior. This ongoing observation informs adjustments to feeder deployment strategies, maximizing their effectiveness and relevance.
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Nectar Level Assessment
Regularly checking nectar levels within the feeders provides direct insight into hummingbird feeding activity. Rapid depletion suggests high hummingbird traffic, potentially indicating peak migration periods or limited natural nectar availability. Conversely, consistently full feeders may indicate that either hummingbird populations are low or natural sources are abundant. This data informs adjustments to the timing of feeder deployment and nectar solution concentration. For example, high consumption rates early in the season might warrant earlier deployment in subsequent years.
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Hummingbird Presence Observation
Systematic observation of hummingbird presence around the feeders and within the broader environment reveals patterns of arrival, departure, and habitat use. Noting the first sightings of hummingbirds in the spring, the peak number of individuals, and any shifts in species composition provides valuable data for refining feeder deployment strategies. This information can also correlate with local bloom cycles, helping to determine the relative need for supplemental feeding. Delayed hummingbird arrival, despite predicted timing, may suggest holding off on initial feeder deployment, preventing the nectar from spoiling unnecessarily.
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Weather Pattern Correlation
Linking observed hummingbird activity with prevailing weather patterns provides a nuanced understanding of the relationship between environmental conditions and feeding behavior. Monitoring temperature, rainfall, and wind conditions, and cross-referencing these with feeder activity, can reveal how adverse weather events influence hummingbird foraging. For example, after a period of heavy rain or a sudden cold snap, hummingbirds may rely more heavily on feeders due to the disruption of natural nectar sources. This information allows for proactive feeder management, ensuring availability during periods of increased demand. These observations provide data to prepare for predictable needs.
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Feeder Condition Evaluation
Consistent inspection of the feeder itself is critical to maintaining its functionality and hygiene. Regular cleaning prevents the growth of mold and bacteria that can harm hummingbirds. Observing any damage or leaks ensures the feeder remains accessible and efficient. Moreover, monitoring for insect infestations, such as ants or bees, allows for timely implementation of deterrent measures, preventing competition for the nectar and maintaining a safe feeding environment. These evaluations ensure that when the timing is right to deploy a feeder, it will be in top condition.
These facets of consistent monitoring converge to provide a dynamic, responsive approach to hummingbird feeder deployment. By continually assessing nectar levels, observing hummingbird presence, correlating with weather patterns, and evaluating feeder conditions, a comprehensive understanding of local needs emerges. This understanding enables timely adjustments to feeder placement and maintenance, maximizing the benefits for hummingbird populations and optimizing the effectiveness of supplemental feeding strategies. The absence of this monitoring can lead to a mismanaged feeder, failing in its purpose.
6. Regional Variations
Regional variations profoundly affect the determination of optimal hummingbird feeder deployment timing. Diverse climates, migratory patterns, and indigenous plant life necessitate localized approaches. Uniform strategies, neglecting regional specifics, are unlikely to yield effective results.
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Migratory Routes and Species Distribution
Different regions host distinct hummingbird species with varying migratory patterns. The Ruby-throated Hummingbird migrates across eastern North America, while Anna’s Hummingbird is primarily a resident of the Pacific Coast, with expanding populations. In the Rocky Mountains, several species like the Broad-tailed Hummingbird undertake altitudinal migrations. The implications of these variations are that feeder deployment must align with the specific migratory timing and species presence within each region. For instance, deploying feeders in the Pacific Northwest in early winter might attract Anna’s Hummingbirds, whereas this would be irrelevant in the eastern U.S. This calls for region-specific calendars for migration.
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Climatic Conditions and Bloom Times
Climatic conditions, including temperature and rainfall patterns, significantly influence the timing of natural bloom cycles. The onset of spring blooms varies dramatically across different regions. In the Southwest, earlier spring blooms necessitate earlier consideration of feeder deployment, while in northern regions, the later onset of spring requires a corresponding adjustment. Furthermore, microclimates within a region can also create variations. Feeders in a sheltered valley might be deployed earlier than those on an exposed ridge. These regional bloom differences will directly inform the ideal timing for feeder placement, ensuring support complements, rather than replaces, natural resources.
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Local Plant Availability
The indigenous plant life, and the specific nectar-producing flowers available in each region, shape the natural food sources accessible to hummingbirds. Some regions may have a greater abundance and diversity of hummingbird-friendly plants than others. In areas with limited natural nectar sources, the early deployment of feeders is crucial. Conversely, in regions with rich and diverse native blooms, the need for supplemental feeding might be reduced. Therefore, awareness of local flora is essential for adjusting the timing of feeder deployment to complement the natural availability of food.
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Awareness and Ornithological Data
The level of awareness among local communities, along with the availability of ornithological data, influences feeder deployment timing. Regions with active birding communities often have well-documented migration patterns and bloom cycles, providing valuable information for determining the optimal time for feeder placement. Furthermore, local knowledge of unusual weather events or environmental changes can help adjust feeder deployment strategies. Collaboration with local birding groups and organizations enhances the ability to make informed decisions about feeder deployment, ensuring that efforts are aligned with the specific needs of hummingbirds in that region.
In conclusion, these regional variations highlight the need for tailored approaches when determining optimal hummingbird feeder deployment timing. An understanding of regional migratory patterns, climatic conditions, local plant availability, and ornithological data enables a more nuanced and effective strategy. Failing to account for these regional specifics can lead to mistimed or misdirected efforts, ultimately diminishing the value of supplemental feeding for hummingbird populations. Understanding the regional characteristics is as important as understanding the needs of the hummingbirds themselves.
7. Weather Patterns
Weather patterns are a critical determinant influencing decisions on hummingbird feeder deployment. These patterns affect both hummingbird migration and the availability of natural food sources. Understanding their implications is key to optimizing the timing of feeder placement.
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Temperature Fluctuations
Temperature directly impacts the availability of nectar-producing flowers. Unseasonably warm temperatures can trigger early blooms, potentially prompting earlier hummingbird migration. Conversely, cold snaps can damage blossoms, reducing natural food sources and creating a greater need for supplemental feeding. Monitoring temperature trends and historical averages aids in anticipating these effects and adjusting feeder deployment schedules accordingly. For example, an unusually warm February might suggest deploying feeders earlier than normal to support hummingbirds responding to the early bloom.
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Rainfall and Drought
Rainfall patterns influence plant growth and nectar production. Adequate rainfall supports abundant blooms, whereas drought conditions can severely restrict flowering. In drought-prone areas, feeder deployment may need to be earlier and more consistent to compensate for limited natural nectar. Heavy rainfall events can also temporarily reduce hummingbird access to flowers, increasing their reliance on feeders. Awareness of rainfall trends, both short-term and long-term, informs appropriate feeder management. For example, following a prolonged drought, deploying feeders as soon as conditions become favorable helps support recovering hummingbird populations.
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Wind Conditions
Strong winds can affect hummingbird foraging behavior. High winds make it difficult for hummingbirds to access nectar, increasing their energy expenditure. In windy areas, positioning feeders in sheltered locations is crucial. Moreover, persistent winds can accelerate the evaporation of nectar from feeders, requiring more frequent refills. Understanding local wind patterns helps optimize feeder placement and maintenance. For instance, placing feeders on the leeward side of a building can provide protection from prevailing winds, ensuring easy access for the birds.
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Extreme Weather Events
Extreme weather events, such as late frosts, hailstorms, or heat waves, can dramatically impact hummingbird populations and food availability. Late frosts can kill emerging blossoms, creating a sudden need for supplemental feeding. Hailstorms can damage flowers and foliage, while heat waves can reduce nectar production. Monitoring weather forecasts and responding promptly to these events is essential. After a late frost, for example, immediate deployment of feeders can provide a crucial food source for stressed hummingbirds.
In conclusion, the correlation between weather patterns and the timing of hummingbird feeder deployment is multifaceted. Temperature fluctuations, rainfall trends, wind conditions, and extreme weather events all influence the availability of natural nectar and the energy demands of hummingbirds. A thorough understanding of these patterns, combined with diligent monitoring and responsive feeder management, is essential for effectively supporting hummingbird populations.
8. Early Establishment
Early establishment, referring to the proactive placement of hummingbird feeders well in advance of expected hummingbird arrival, significantly impacts the effectiveness of supplemental feeding programs. This proactive approach influences hummingbird behavior and resource availability during critical periods.
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Attracting Initial Migrants
Deploying feeders before the primary migratory wave arrives provides an easily accessible food source for the first individuals. These initial migrants, often scouts, establish feeding territories. Early feeder placement can influence the establishment of these territories, securing the location as a reliable resource for the subsequent population influx. An example includes consistently placing feeders in known hummingbird habitats weeks before average arrival dates, resulting in increased hummingbird presence throughout the season. Failing this, scout birds may move on.
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Minimizing Competition for Resources
Early feeder establishment reduces competition for limited natural nectar, particularly during periods when first blooms are sparse. This proactive approach supports the nutritional needs of early arrivals, preventing them from expending excessive energy searching for food. Consistent early deployment, therefore, can bolster the overall health and survival rates of the local hummingbird population. The benefit is especially noticeable in areas where development has diminished native plant life.
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Establishing Feeding Patterns
Hummingbirds exhibit strong site fidelity, often returning to established feeding locations year after year. Early feeder establishment capitalizes on this behavior by creating predictable food sources, encouraging hummingbirds to incorporate these locations into their regular feeding circuits. This predictability can be especially beneficial for attracting returning individuals in subsequent seasons. For instance, consistently providing feeders at the same location over several years leads to a noticeable increase in hummingbird visitation, regardless of natural nectar availability. The result is a dependable food source across years.
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Facilitating Nesting Success
Early access to supplemental nectar supports the energy demands of breeding hummingbirds, particularly females preparing to lay eggs and raise young. Readily available food resources can improve nesting success rates. Therefore, early feeder establishment indirectly benefits the entire population by supporting reproductive health. Research in areas with consistent feeder availability correlates early feeder deployment with increased nesting frequency and fledgling survival. This effect highlights the importance of proactive strategies in conservation efforts.
These factors underscore the importance of considering early establishment when determining “when to hang hummingbird feeders”. A proactive approach maximizes the benefits of supplemental feeding, supporting hummingbird health, survival, and reproductive success. It also ensures the creation of stable, reliable resources that will continue to attract and support these birds year after year.
9. Breeding Season
Breeding season fundamentally affects the optimal timing for hummingbird feeder deployment. This period of intense activity, encompassing courtship, nesting, egg-laying, and chick-rearing, creates heightened energy demands for hummingbirds. Ensuring adequate food resources during this critical phase is crucial for reproductive success. A direct correlation exists between the timing of feeder deployment and the nutritional support available to breeding hummingbirds. For instance, if feeders are not established by the time females are building nests, the lack of readily available nectar could negatively impact egg production and overall nestling health. This highlights the importance of aligning feeder availability with the energy demands of the breeding cycle.
Supplemental feeding via appropriately timed feeder deployment provides tangible benefits during breeding. Female hummingbirds require substantial energy to produce eggs, and later, to repeatedly feed their rapidly growing young. Readily accessible, high-energy nectar reduces foraging time, allowing females to allocate more time to nest building, incubation, and chick care. For example, studies have shown that hummingbirds with access to feeders during breeding season exhibit increased nesting success rates and produce heavier fledglings, demonstrating the practical impact of supplemental feeding on reproductive output. Similarly, male hummingbirds need energy to defend territory. The provision of feeders near nesting sites can mitigate territorial disputes and allow for better nest site defense. This demonstrates the interrelation between breeding needs and the correct feeder deployment timing.
In summary, breeding season stands as a key determinant influencing “when to hang hummingbird feeders.” The increased energy requirements associated with reproduction demand that supplemental feeding be strategically aligned with the breeding cycle. Early feeder deployment, timed to coincide with nest building and egg-laying, provides crucial support for both adult hummingbirds and their developing young. While challenges exist in predicting the exact onset of breeding in specific regions, historical data, bloom cycle observations, and local ornithological insights contribute to informed decision-making, ensuring optimal timing for feeder deployment and maximizing the benefits for hummingbird populations during this vital period.
Frequently Asked Questions
This section addresses common inquiries regarding the appropriate timing for deploying hummingbird feeders, providing insights into best practices based on scientific understanding and observational data.
Question 1: What is the earliest acceptable time to hang hummingbird feeders in the spring?
The earliest acceptable time corresponds to approximately two weeks prior to the average arrival date of hummingbirds in a given region. This proactive approach ensures a readily available food source for early migrants.
Question 2: How does the presence of natural blooms affect feeder deployment?
The availability of natural blooms is a key consideration. If natural nectar sources are abundant, the immediate need for feeders diminishes. However, even with natural blooms, supplemental feeding can support increased hummingbird populations during peak migration or breeding periods.
Question 3: Should feeder placement be adjusted based on weather forecasts?
Yes, weather patterns exert considerable influence. Anticipating late frosts or extended periods of cold weather necessitates earlier feeder deployment to compensate for potential damage to natural nectar sources.
Question 4: How does one determine the average hummingbird arrival date for a specific location?
Local birding groups, ornithological societies, and online databases provide valuable information regarding hummingbird migration patterns and average arrival dates. Consulting these resources offers region-specific guidance.
Question 5: What are the consequences of deploying hummingbird feeders too late in the season?
Delayed feeder deployment may result in missed opportunities to support early migrating hummingbirds or those requiring supplemental food during periods of limited natural resources. It reduces the overall benefit of the feeder.
Question 6: Is it beneficial to keep hummingbird feeders up throughout the entire year?
In regions with resident hummingbird populations, year-round feeder maintenance can provide continuous support. However, in areas where hummingbirds migrate, maintaining feeders past the typical departure date offers minimal benefit and may attract unwanted insects. One should ensure the feeder is kept clean.
In summation, informed decision-making regarding hummingbird feeder deployment timing hinges on understanding local migration patterns, climatic conditions, and natural food availability. Observational data and reliable resources provide the foundation for successful hummingbird support.
The following section will examine best practices for maintaining hummingbird feeders, ensuring their continued efficacy throughout the feeding season.
Tips for Optimizing Hummingbird Feeder Deployment Timing
Successful support for hummingbird populations hinges on the strategic timing of feeder deployment. Consider the following guidelines to maximize the effectiveness of supplemental feeding efforts.
Tip 1: Consult Local Ornithological Resources: Researching regional hummingbird migration patterns and historical arrival dates is paramount. Engage with local birding groups and ornithological societies to obtain location-specific data.
Tip 2: Monitor Bloom Cycles: Observe the timing and abundance of natural nectar sources. Deploy feeders in anticipation of hummingbird arrival, particularly if natural blooms are limited due to seasonal variations or environmental conditions.
Tip 3: Factor in Weather Patterns: Account for potential late frosts or periods of cold weather that may damage natural nectar sources. Deploy feeders proactively to ensure an alternative food source is available during these periods.
Tip 4: Establish Feeders Early: Prioritize early feeder deployment to attract initial migrating hummingbirds and establish feeding territories. This provides a reliable resource for the subsequent population influx.
Tip 5: Consider Breeding Season Needs: Align feeder deployment with the hummingbird breeding cycle. Provide consistent access to nectar during nesting, egg-laying, and chick-rearing to support reproductive success.
Tip 6: Maintain Consistent Monitoring: Regularly assess feeder nectar levels and observe hummingbird activity. Adjust feeder placement and nectar solution concentration based on real-time feedback.
Tip 7: Adjust for Regional Variations: Recognize the diverse migratory patterns, climates, and plant life characteristic of different regions. Tailor feeder deployment strategies to suit the specific needs of local hummingbird populations.
Tip 8: Provide Shelter and Security: Place feeders in locations sheltered from strong winds and direct sunlight. These conditions create a safer and more accessible feeding environment for hummingbirds.
Effective hummingbird feeder deployment timing requires a nuanced understanding of regional specifics, environmental cues, and hummingbird behavior. By implementing these tips, one can maximize the benefits of supplemental feeding programs and contribute to hummingbird conservation efforts.
The subsequent section offers concluding thoughts on the importance of well-timed hummingbird feeder deployment and its role in supporting these unique birds.
When to Hang Hummingbird Feeders
The timing of hummingbird feeder placement is a critical aspect of supporting these birds, influencing their migration, breeding, and overall survival. Successfully attracting hummingbirds requires a keen understanding of regional variations, bloom cycles, weather patterns, and migratory tendencies. Deploying feeders too early, or too late, diminishes the benefits these supplemental food sources offer. A consistent and adaptable approach, grounded in observation and accurate information, ensures feeders fulfill their intended purpose.
Therefore, thoughtful consideration of the factors discussed is paramount. The commitment to informed action strengthens conservation efforts, contributing to the continued health and vibrancy of hummingbird populations. By aligning feeder deployment with ecological needs, individuals actively participate in preserving these remarkable creatures for future generations.
