So you want to attract hummingbirds to your garden – or you’re at least thinking about it. Well there’s no better time than the present and you won’t regret it. Hummingbirds are a great addition to the garden and incredibly fun to watch. If you want to attract hummingbirds to your yard, one of the best ways to do so is to set up a hummingbird feeder. Hummingbird feeders come in a variety of styles and sizes, so you can choose one that suits your preferences and style. I just got a cheapo one from the dollar store and it works great – no need to be precious about it.
Hummingbird Nectar Recipe
Ingredients:
- Granulated white sugar
- Water
You’re going to want to do a 4 to 1 ratio.
- For instance 1 Cup Water to 1/4 cup Sugar (smaller hummingbird feeder)
- Or 4 Cups Water to 1 Cup Sugar (large hummingbird feeder)
Instructions:
- In a medium saucepan, combine sugar and water.
- Heat the mixture over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar has completely dissolved.
- Remove the pan from the heat and let the mixture cool completely.
- Pour the nectar into your hummingbird feeder.
And voila, easy hummingbird nectar. Note* Do not use artificial sweeteners, as they can be harmful to hummingbirds.
Here are some tips for setting up a hummingbird feeder:
Choose the right location: Hummingbirds prefer feeders that are located in a shaded area, as direct sunlight can cause the nectar to spoil more quickly. Also, make sure you hang the hummingbird feeder somewhere it’s easy to see, so you can enjoy watching the hummingbirds as they feed. Mine is hanging right in front of my hammock.
Clean the feeder regularly: It’s important to clean your hummingbird feeder regularly to prevent the growth of mold and bacteria. You can use a solution of one part white vinegar to four parts water to clean the feeder, and be sure to rinse it thoroughly before refilling it with fresh nectar.
Use the right nectar recipe: As mentioned above, it’s important to use the right recipe for hummingbird nectar. Don’t add food coloring or other additives to the nectar, as they can be harmful to hummingbirds.
Be patient: It may take a few days or even weeks for hummingbirds to discover your feeder, so be patient and keep refilling it with fresh nectar. Once the hummingbirds find your feeder, they will likely return year after year.
By following these tips, you can attract hummingbirds to your yard and enjoy watching these fascinating birds up close. Hummingbirds are known for their vibrant colors and unique behaviors, and watching them feed from a feeder is an incredibly delightful experience.
Did you know? Hummingbird Facts:
Hummingbirds are the smallest birds in the world, with some species weighing less than a penny.
Hummingbirds are incredibly fast and can fly up to 60 miles per hour. They are also the only birds that can fly backwards.
Hummingbirds have a unique ability to hover in mid-air, thanks to their wings’ rapid flapping. They can flap their wings up to 80 times per second.
Hummingbirds are very territorial and will fiercely defend their feeding areas from other hummingbirds.
The heart rate of a hummingbird can reach up to 1,260 beats per minute, which is the fastest of any bird species.
Hummingbirds have a unique relationship with flowers. They are the primary pollinators of many flowers, and their long beaks and tongues allow them to reach nectar deep inside the flowers.
Hummingbirds have excellent eyesight and can see colors that humans cannot, such as ultraviolet light.
Hummingbirds can consume up to twice their body weight in nectar every day to keep up with their high metabolism.
Hummingbirds are found only in the Americas, from Alaska to Tierra del Fuego.
There are over 300 species of hummingbirds, each with unique coloring and physical characteristics.