Hummingbird Feeding Guide is here to help you with attracting hummingbirds to your yard safely. I know I had to look it up to help figure it out too. Not that I went and bought a bunch of flowers to attract them. But I just wanted to get some feeders for them. That meant by doing it properly and getting it all cleaned and ready to go.
I had to look it all up, cause I had no success with this in the past. I set up my feeders and had one hummingbird but they never came again. So I had to do some research and do it right this time.
I did it correctly cause I had many little hummingbirds yesterday. Think they only are out on sunny days, cause today is a cloudy day and I saw 2 today only.
Hummingbird Feeding: Get tiny visitors in your yard
Hummingbird feeders brings the life to your yard. Seeing this little birdies zooming around your yard and hearing them is so great. They are so fast and curious and love to check out things in your area.
What do they eat?
- Nectar (Primary energy source)
- small insects (protein)
This is why it is good to have flowers that they can feed on. But you don’t need to rush out and buy them, just start with a feeder instead. This mimics natural flower sugars, by using a homemade nectar.
Best Hummingbird Nectar Recipe (Very safe)
I came across this recipe and based on guidelines from the National Audubon Society.
Simple Nectar Recipe:
- 1 part white sugar
- 4 parts water
Instructions:
- Boil the water
- Stir in the sugar until fully dissolved
- Let cool completely before filling the feeder.
Important:
- Do NOT use honey
- Do NOT use artificial sweeteners
- Do NOT add red dye (it can harm birds)
How to Feed Hummingbirds Properly
Feeding hummingbirds is not just about placing out the feeders, with the sugar water-but remember to do it safely.
I came across this pretty purple hummingbird feeder, so pretty.
Using the Correct Feeder
Look for feeders with:
- Red colors (attract hummingbirds)
- Easy to clean design
- Leak-Proof base
- Perches would be nice too, for them to have a rest.
Where to Place them
- Hang in shaded area (to prevent spoilage)
- Place near flowers or garden space
- Keep visible but safe from predators (cats)
Cleaning Routine:
- Clean the feeder every 2-3 days if its hot outside
- Clean every 6-7 days in cooler weather.
- Use hot water (no dishsoap- you can use vinegar if you need more cleaning power)
- Make sure to air-dry your feeder, before filling it (moisture encourages mold growth)
When to Start Feeding Hummingbirds
Timing it all depends on your location. But usually in end of April beginning of May. And keep them out till end of September. I usually go by how my weather is, its getting little cooler I take them down.
Hummingbirds migrate, and having this out till their have left is a good idea. I will usually leave one out, just incase I have some still around. Just to be safe, want them to know they have something there to drink.
What you Can do To Attract Hummingbirds Naturally
Feeders are just one thing you can do, you can also plant some flowers.
Hummingbirds love:
- Bee Balm
- Trumpet Vine
- Salvia
- Columbine
They provide natural nectar and make your space even that more inviting to them.
Some Common Mistakes To Avoid
- Using red dye in nectar
- Letting Nectar spoil
- Forgetting to clean feeders
- Placing feeders in direct sun (was the mistake I made, many times)
- Using honey ( fungus can grow)
Why do Feeding Hummingbirds Matter
Hummingbirds play a role in the pollination and the ecosystem also. Helping to maintain a good balance all around.
Maybe you would like to see their migration, some very cool info.
For me- I just love hearing them around, the bzzz bzzz sounds great. I am always looking around for them when i hear that. Love looking out the window and watching them zoom around. Sometimes you will see them just sitting there. They are so tiny and just adorable.
So if you think you just want to see some pretty little hummingbirds come by your window, in your yard. Then start with some feeders and flowers, and wait for them to amaze you.