Attracting and feeding hummingbirds

Posted

The most common species of hummingbirds is the ruby-throated hummingbird. Their feisty, lively nature makes them fun to watch at the feeder as they spar with others for the nectar.

Hummingbirds love the color red, so it helps to plant red Geraniums or other red flowers under or near the feeder to attract them to the area. 

Be sure to hang the feeders high so the birds are out of the reach of lurking cats waiting to pounce. It is also nice to place a tomato cage below the feeder to serve as a roost for chicks the parents may decide to bring to the feeder.

Do not use store bought red nectar because it weakens the eggshells and causes many chicks to be lost. A homemade recipe for Hummingbird Nectar is a 1:4 ratio of water and table sugar. Boil the sugar and water for several minutes to help deter mold from growing in the feeder, then let it cool before using it.

Make sure to clean and refill the feeder at least once a week because bacteria can grow. 

Sometimes bugs or ants get caught in the feeder and that contaminates the nectar and it is best to clean everything out and refill it.

Hummingbirds eat five to 14 meals each hour. 

They consume half their body weight each day and that is about the weight of half a walnut shell. 

They use spider silk and plant down for a large portion of their nest interior with lichens, moss and plants covering the outer portion to help hide it from predators.