Attracting and keeping hummingbirds in your garden is a great way to bring vibrant life to your yard and enjoy the beauty of these tiny birds up close. With their incredible speed and agility, hummingbirds are truly a marvel of nature, but they can be elusive creatures.
If you’re looking to attract hummingbirds to your yard, or keep them coming back year after year, there are a few things you can do to create a hummingbird-friendly environment.
Hummingbirds Returning to the Same Place Year After Year
One of the most fascinating things about these birds is their ability to return to the same place year after year. Evidence of recurring hummingbird visits can be observed in bird feeders, gardens, and yards across the country.
If you’ve ever seen a hummingbird returning to the same spot over and over again, you might wonder why they do it. Possible explanations for hummingbirds returning include instinct, navigation, landmarks, smell, and hearing.
Some scientists believe that hummingbirds have an innate instinct that drives them to return to the same place every year. Others suggest that they use landmarks, such as trees, buildings, or other structures, to navigate and remember the location.
Still, others believe that hummingbirds rely on their sharp sense of smell or hearing to guide them back. Regardless of the reason, one thing is for certain – hummingbirds are creatures of habit.
If you want to attract them to your yard and keep them coming back, there are a few things you can do to create an inviting environment.
Attracting and Keeping Hummingbirds in Your Garden or Yard
Specialist Hummingbird Feeders
One of the best ways to attract hummingbirds to your yard is by using specially designed hummingbird feeders. These feeders are visually bright, often with red features that catch the attention of passing hummingbirds.
Many also have perches where hummingbirds can rest and feed without expending too much energy. When selecting a feeder, it’s essential to choose the right size and style.
Larger feeders may attract more birds, but they can be heavier and harder to clean. Smaller feeders are easier to handle but may require more frequent refilling.
Offering Hummingbirds Favorite Foods
In addition to using feeders, you can also attract hummingbirds by providing their favorite foods. These birds have a primary diet of nectar, which they obtain from the flowers of certain plants.
You can plant hummingbird-friendly plants like Bee Balm, Coral Bells, and Columbine to create a buffet of nectar sources in your garden. Hummingbirds also feed on insects, which can be beneficial for pest control in your yard.
Providing a source of insects, like mealworms or fruit flies, can help attract hummingbirds while also providing a natural source of food.
Keeping Your Hummingbird Feeders in the Exact Same Spot
Hummingbirds rely on routine and will remember feeder locations if left in the same spot. Moving the feeder around may confuse hummingbirds and cause them to avoid it.
It’s essential to choose a spot that’s easy to access for both you and the birds. A place that is in a relatively shady or cool area can also be beneficial.
Make sure the feeder is securely attached and kept away from potential predators, such as cats.
Planting Plants and Flowers that Attract Hummingbirds
Finally, planting specific types of plants and flowers that hummingbirds enjoy can also help attract and keep them coming back. Hummingbirds are attracted to brightly colored flowers, especially those that are red or orange.
Plants like the Cardinal Flower, Butterfly Bush, and Trumpet Vine are favorites of hummingbirds because they provide plenty of nectar to feed on. It’s also important to space out your plants to create a clear flight path for the birds.
In conclusion, attracting and keeping hummingbirds in your yard can be a fun and exciting way to enjoy these incredible creatures up close. By using specialist hummingbird feeders, offering their favorite foods, keeping feeders in the same spot, and planting hummingbird-friendly plants, you can create an inviting environment that hummingbirds will love.
Whether you’re an avid birdwatcher or simply enjoy nature’s beauty, attracting hummingbirds to your yard is a rewarding endeavor. In conclusion, attracting and keeping hummingbirds in your yard is a wonderful way to appreciate these fascinating creatures up close.
Specialist hummingbird feeders, offering their favorite foods, keeping feeders in the same spot, and planting hummingbird-friendly plants are all effective ways to attract and keep them coming back. With a little effort and patience, you can turn your garden or yard into a hummingbird paradise.
Check out these FAQs for more information:
1. What should I put in my hummingbird feeder?
You should fill your hummingbird feeder with a solution of four parts water to one part white granulated sugar. Avoid using honey or other sweeteners, as they can be harmful to hummingbirds.
2. How do I keep ants and bees away from my feeder?
One way to keep ants away is by using an ant moat or petroleum jelly on the pole or hanger. For bees, consider using feeders with bee guards or moving the feeder to a shadier location.
3. How often should I clean my feeder?
You should clean your hummingbird feeder at least once a week to prevent mold and bacteria growth. Use hot water and soap, and rinse thoroughly.
4. Will leaving my feeder up in the fall prevent hummingbirds from migrating?
No, hummingbirds migrate based on instinct, not food availability. Leaving your feeder up in the fall may help stragglers or late-migrating birds, but it won’t prevent them from flying south for the winter.
5. How do I make my yard more attractive to hummingbirds?
To make your yard more attractive to hummingbirds, consider planting nectar-rich flowers such as bee balm, columbine, salvia, or trumpet vine. You can also include fruit trees, berry bushes, and flowering herbs to provide additional food sources for hummingbirds and other pollinators.