Attracting Hummingbirds
With the start of spring also comes the spring migration for birds. One of the most popular birds for gardeners are hummingbirds. Click HERE to track the migration of hummingbirds so you know when to expect them in your area and can have your feeder prepared.
Ruby throated hummingbirds will usually return to Wisconsin around Mother’s Day. The following information has some helpful tips about how to attract in the hummingbirds, especially if you have a feeder but have not had much luck getting the hummingbirds to continue visiting your garden.
Hummingbirds are often referred to as “flying jewels” and it is no wonder with their beautiful iridescence. Approximately 20 species can be found throughout North America with only one species (the Ruby Throated hummingbird) commonly found east of the Rocky Mountains. Attracting hummingbirds is easy and will provide both beauty and grace to your garden.
Hummingbirds feed on both tiny insects as well as nectar. They prefer plants with tubular flowers for their nectar source. Hummingbirds are attracted to the color red and the saying “the redder, the better” applies to most hummingbird favorites. Below is a list of selected plants.
American Columbine (Aquilegia canadensis)
Butterfly Bush (Buddleia davidii)
Coralbells (Heuchera sanguinea)
Annual flowers such as Fuschias, Salvias, Petunias
The natural nectar source can also be supplemented with a hummingbird feeder providing sugar water. The standard solution is 1 part white sugar to 4 parts water. Bring the solution to a boil over low heat and boil 2 minutes. Allow to cool and fill feeders. Refrigerate any remaining solution for up to one week. Do NOT use honey, brown sugar or molasses in place of the white sugar as these are harmful to the hummingbirds. Also, it is NOT necessary to add red dye. Some studies show this is harmful and since most hummingbird feeders are red, it is not needed.
Hummingbirds just returning from migration need a quick source of energy. Place feeders near red flowers to help attract in the hummingbirds. Keep the feeders available through the fall for the fall migration. Leaving your feeder out will not keep the hummingbirds from migrating. Remove the feeders after all the hummingbirds have migrated and you do not see any hummingbirds for more than a week. Some hummingbirds, like the Ruby-throated hummingbird, can be very aggressive and territorial so placing several small feeders around your yard will attract more hummingbirds than one large one.
It is essential to keep hummingbird feeders clean. They need to be cleaned two to three times a week in warm weather. Empty the old solution and rinse with water. Add a few grains of uncooked rice and a little vinegar. Swish these around to help clean the inside. A small brush is helpful to clean out any mold that may have started. Discard the rice and vinegar and rinse thoroughly. Add fresh sugar solution and hang back outside.
Whether you attract hummingbirds by providing natural nectar sources through flowers or by supplementing with a feeder, getting the chance to observe these beautiful jewels up close is a wonderful experience.
To help you get started creating a hummingbird haven, click HERE to purchase the hummingbird package at a special price.
