These fast and attractive little birds are full of entertainment and personality! My whole family has grown to love watching them come to for a quick drink before another bird dive bombs them away. Then we listen to the fast chirps and squeaks as they show their disapproval to the “bully” as we call him. Over the years I have attracted quite a gathering of them to my yard, and I am happy to share with you how you can make your garden a hummingbird haven.
{This post contains affiliate links, meaning, I recommend products and services I’ve used or know well and as an Amazon Associate, I may receive a commission if you purchase them too (at no additional cost to you)}
Hummingbirds are drawn to brightly colored flowers, particularly those in shades of red, orange, pink and blue. Consider planting a mix of nectar-rich, tubular flowers near your feeder such as:
Bee Balm (Monarda)
Salvia (Salvia spp.)
Trumpet Creeper (Campsis radicans)
Columbine (Aquilegia)
Fuchsia (Fuchsia spp.)
These flowers have evolved to attract hummingbirds, with their shape and color specifically suited to these tiny aviators.
These bundles of energy require food frequently and primarily feed on nectar. However, hummingbirds can be picky eaters and will not drink nectar from feeders that has turned into moldy syrup in the summer heat. If they do not have a consistent source of food they will move on and find another home.
You can supplement their natural diet with homemade nectar. You can make a large batch of nectar every 7-10 days and store it in the fridge. This makes it much easier to keep feeders fresh.
Simply mix four parts water with one part granulated sugar. Bring to a boil for 1 min, let it cool, and fill your feeders.
Feeders need to be thoroughly cleaned every 2-3 days, especially in hot weather.
Never use honey, artificial sweeteners, colors or dyes! They may come and drink, and then you wonder where your birds went? Well, those substances are toxic and can harm or kill hummingbirds, so stick with plain water and sugar.
Select feeders with red, blue or yellow accents, these bright colors are particularly attractive to hummingbirds.
Ensure the feeders are easy to clean and fill. As discussed above you need to change the nectar every 3-4 days, so choose a feeder that is easy to clean.
Glass or high-quality plastic feeders are best. Avoid any metal on the feeder as they tend to rust and can be to hot in the sun.
Ensure the feeder openings are smooth. Hummingbirds can cut their beaks and tongue in sharp edges.
Choose a feeder that doesn’t require a lot of nectar. It may seem like a good idea to have a large volume feeder, but all that nectar will go bad before its eaten. Remember these picky eaters need fresh food every few days. So find a feeder where they are able to reach the nectar with only 1-2 cups in it so you are not wasting that liquid gold.
Opt for feeders with multiple ports to accommodate several birds at once (if you can get them to share).
(See my favorite feeders at the end of this article)
Hummingbirds are very territorial of their food source, and an Alpha bird will quickly become the dominant one. The “Bully” as we call him, guards the food source, and will chase away other hummingbirds if he notices them trying to sneak a drink. We have frequently seen one just sitting on the feeder (not even drinking) like he is claiming his treasure.
To ensure everyone gets a turn, have at least 2 feeders on different sides of your yard.
Hummingbirds need more than just nectar; they also seek out a safe and welcoming environment. Add perching spots near feeders, like small branches or bushes, where they can rest. Maintain a mix of open spaces and shelter to keep them safe from predators.
Hummingbirds also enjoy a source of fresh water for drinking and bathing. A small, shallow birdbath or a mister can be a great addition to your garden. Just ensure the water is clean and changed regularly.
Consider a solar powered birdbath that circulates the water to avoid a mosquito breeding ground.
In colder climates, hummingbirds may migrate away for the winter, but in warmer regions, they might stick around. Once your birds have left for the fall, you can take down the feeders.
In early spring birds will send ‘scouts’ to look for suitable homes. Make sure you have a feeder out early for them to find. I also love annuals that bloom early spring next to my feeder to attract them.
Once I see my first “fight”, or more than 1 bird trying to drink, I put out my second or third feeder. It is easier to maintain just 1 feeder in the beginning of the year.
Chemicals can be harmful to hummingbirds and the insects they feed on. Maintain a pesticide-free garden to ensure a healthy habitat for these birds. Opt for natural pest control methods and attract beneficial insects like ladybugs to help manage pests.
Different regions host different species of hummingbirds. Familiarize yourself with the hummingbirds native to your area, and tailor your garden’s plant selection and feeder placement to attract those species specifically.
Creating a hummingbird-friendly garden is a rewarding endeavor that invites these magnificent creatures into your life. By providing the right plants, feeders, and environment, you can enjoy the delight of seeing hummingbirds darting about, adding a touch of magic to your garden. Happy birdwatching!
My favorite Hummingbird Products:
{This post contains affiliate links, meaning, I recommend products and services I’ve used or know well and as an Amazon Associate, I may receive a commission if you purchase them too (at no additional cost to you)}
https://amzn.to/3Tc5cCp
eWonLife Hummingbird Feeder for Outdoors, 2 Pack, Leak-Proof, Easy to Clean and Refill, Saucer Humming Bird Feeder Plastic, Including Hanging Hook, with 5 Feeding Ports (16 Ounce/Pack)
- Fill In One Step: With round and flat dish design, this wide mouth saucer hummingbird feeders is easy to clean and fill, just lift off the red cover to fill nectar or water. The bottom is clear enough to monitor levels and cleanliness
- Leak-Proof: Unlike cylinder feeders, our feeder do not exit pressure difference, so this hummingbird feeders for outdoors is leak-proof
https://amzn.to/3XoKTEd
Hummingbird Window View Feeder Jewel Box Suction Cups Bird.
- Suction cups adhere to a window or you can mount it on a deck railing. The hinged lid opens for easy cleaning and filling and latches securely closed.
- The bright red design attracts the birds. 8 oz. capacity
- 3 Feeding stations, Plastic. Hardware not included.
- Designed with a perch so birds can stay longer
- Easy to refill
https://amzn.to/4cQb5MB
Woodlink Window Glass Hangar for Bird Feeders Model WL13207
- Converts seed or hummingbird feeder to a window feeder
- Clear plastic window hanger attaches via suction cups
- Durable heavy-duty plastic with 2 suction cups
- Holds up to a 4 lb filled feeder