Tips for Attracting Hummingbirds

Hummingbirds are fast-moving birds that are minute in size and come in various different species. Although the Ruby-throated variety is what many people think of when it comes to hummingbirds, there are many other types of species. Depending on your location, you might see the following other species: Xantus, Buff-Bellied, Allen's, Broad-billed, Blue-throated, Magnificent, Berylline, Calliope, Violet-Crowned or Costas. Regardless of the species in your area, there are some basic tips you can use for attracting hummingbirds to your yard or garden.

One simple way to bring hummingbirds to your yard is by hanging feeders. Hummingbird feeders are bottle shaped and usually crafted from plastic or glass. There are tiny holes in the feeder that allow the hummingbirds to access the nectar. For best results, choose a feeder that's red, because red is a very alluring color for these little birds. While there are many commercial nectar products you can buy to fill your feeder, it's probably easiest and most frugal to make your own. Simply combine one part sugar to four parts water. You can boil this mixture so that the sugar dissolves properly -- just make sure to let it cool before putting it in the feeder. Keeping your feeder clean is crucial. Every time you put new nectar in the feeder, you'll want to take the feeder down and wash it with hot, soapy water. For a glass feeder, you can use the top rack of your dishwasher if you like.

Another way of attracting hummingbirds is by planting specific flowers and shrubs. Go for red, orange, bright pink and purple -- all attractive colors for hummingbirds. Trumpet shaped, nectar-bearing blooms are ideal for bringing hummingbirds to your garden. Try choices like Red Columbine, certain varieties of Salvia, Honeysuckle, Morning Glory, Impatiens, Hollyhock, and even Petunia. Place your feeders in the vicinity of your garden, and you'll have the best chance of bringing hummingbirds to your yard.

The science of attracting hummingbirds can be one that you and your whole family can enjoy. Not only is hummingbird gardening fun and relaxing, it beautifies your landscape and brings both the birds and colorful butterflies to your home. Have a camera at the ready when you're lounging near the garden, and you just might snap a great photo of a hungry hummingbird!

Copyright 2006 Frances Coleman - All Rights Reserved

2007 Ruby-throated Hummingbird

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