What is a hummingbird?
Hummingbirds are easily recognized by their pugnacious demeanor, small size (smallest in the world actually), iridescent coloring on their feathers, long sword-like bill, and familiar “chirps” and “squeaks” as they zoom around their territory. According to the Audubon Society, a hummingbird can flap its wings up to 90 times per second! Their metabolism is so high they eat half their body weight each day! This requires hummingbirds to eat every 10-15 minutes and fly to almost 2,000 flowers each day. In other words, this is a perfect opportunity for bird lovers to help provide hummingbirds a much needed energy boost!
How can I entice these birds to hang around my yard?
One of the best ways to garner a hummingbird’s attention is to provide some nectar in a colored or clear container and suspend it off the ground. You can easily and inexpensively make your own hummingbird food at home. I’ll teach you how with this hummingbird-safe nectar recipe!
Materials:
- ¼ cup refined white sugar
- 1 cup water
- Bowl
- Spoon
Steps:
- Mix the water and sugar until all the sugar is dissolved. You don’t need to heat the water, but if you do, make sure it cools to room temperature before continuing.
- Fill the feeder.
- Hang the feeder outside and wait for the hummingbirds to come!
Note: Firstly, do not add red dye if your feeder is clear. The color is not necessary and the dye might be harmful to the birds. Secondly, only use white refined sugar. Plain honey can cause fungal growth. Organic, natural, or raw sugars can contain iron that can be harmful to hummingbirds. Natural nectar is very close to this recipe’s mixture and the best version you can make!
What else can I do to help hummingbirds?
In addition to providing a nectar buffet for these hard-working pollinators, you can also plant nectar-bearing native plants in your yard. Some plants include:
- Beebalm
- Coral (or Trumpet) honeysuckle
- Cardinal flowers
- Sages
Here is a list of more plants and the specific regions they’re native to. With this information, you can visit your local nursery and find some pollinator-friendly plants!
If you still want to do more to help these birds then you’re in luck – I have one more suggestion for you!
Firstly – how do I know which species of hummingbirds live around me? Well, you can download the free Audubon Bird Guide App. This will help you identify the hummingbirds visiting your backyard feeder!
In conclusion, hummingbirds are incredible pollinators, fascinating, and fun to watch. They are filled with spunky personalities and offer endless hours of enjoyment. Now get out there and tell your friends how to make hummingbird safe nectar and bring them to your yards! If you’re really lucky you might have a mating pair decide to raise young in your yard!
Check back on CritterFacts.com because I’ll be adding more articles every month and there’s sure to be something for everyone.
