Quck answer
Hummingbirds need a diet of nectar from flowers and sugar water from feeders. It’s important to use the correct ratio of sugar to water for the feeders and to clean them regularly. In the spring, it’s common to see male hummingbirds performing courtship displays to attract females. It’s also important to be aware of potential predators and to provide a safe environment for hummingbirds. Common questions about hummingbirds in the spring include when to put up feeders and when the birds migrate.
Wild Animals
As spring arrives, hummingbirds begin their migration and many bird enthusiasts put out feeders to attract these lively and nectar-competitive birds. But what should you feed hummingbirds and what should be avoided? Our expert recommends a simple sugar solution to keep hummingbirds energetic and healthy.
Hummingbirds require a lot of energy for their annual migration from winter sites in Mexico to summer breeding spots as far north as Alaska. These tiny birds rely on radar instinct to navigate and return to the same bird feeders every year. Despite their long and perilous journey, hummingbirds can fly like no other bird, with their fast wings making a “hummmmm” sound.
We spoke with Jason Ward of the Atlanta Audubon Society, who shared his insights on how to feed hummingbirds in your backyard. He emphasized the importance of providing a sugar-water solution to meet hummingbirds’ high metabolism needs.
Q: What fascinates you about hummingbirds?
A: Hummingbirds are biological wonders. With a heartbeat of 1,200 times per minute, they flap their wings about 100 times per second and weigh less than a nickel. Ruby-throated hummingbirds migrate 500 miles over the Gulf of Mexico, and need to feed every 10 minutes due to their high metabolism.
Q: What’s the debate surrounding hummingbird feeders?
A: Some people add red food coloring to their nectar solution to attract hummingbirds, as they are attracted to reddish-colored flowers. While unsubstantiated claims suggest that food dye harms hummingbirds’ egg shells, livers, and kidneys, the truth is unknown. Jason recommends avoiding colored dye until further research is conducted.
Q: What’s the best solution for feeding hummingbirds?
A: The solution is simple: mix one part sugar with four parts water. Avoid adding red food coloring or other additives.
Q: Is it necessary to provide water for hummingbirds?
A: Hummingbirds usually fulfill their water requirements through nectar. Nevertheless, they enjoy water features for bathing purposes. However, traditional bird baths are not suitable for them as they are too deep. Misters, fountains, and slow drippers provide shallow areas for hummingbirds to bathe in and are the best options.
Q: What is the significance of hummingbirds in the environment?
A: Hummingbirds play a crucial role in pollination for wildflowers, shrubs, and trees in the US. They also help to control insect populations by feeding on small insects and spiders.
Q: What kind of flowers attract hummingbirds?
A: In the US, hummingbirds are attracted to colorful, long, and tubular flowers. Some of the best options are trumpet vine, trumpet honeysuckle, red cardinal flower, and bee balm.
Q: What are the predators of hummingbirds?
A: Hummingbirds are preyed upon by many animals such as large insects like robber flies and invasive Chinese mantis, snakes, bullfrogs, and birds. Feral cats are one of the biggest threats to hummingbirds and responsible pet ownership involves keeping cats indoors.
Q: Where do hummingbirds live?
A: The location of hummingbirds’ living depends on their species. Ruby-throated hummingbirds, common in the eastern US, build nests in trees between 10 and 20 feet high. The nests are tiny and constructed of grasses, plant fibers, dead leaves, and spider webs.
Q: What is a little-known fact about hummingbirds?
A: Hummingbirds enter a state called “torpor” to sleep, which is similar to hibernation. They slow their heart rates to 50 beats per minute, appear to stop breathing, and even hang upside down.
Q: Do you have any interesting stories about hummingbirds?
A: During a bird walk in Piedmont Park, Atlanta, we witnessed a delightful hummingbird courtship. When a male ruby-throated hummingbird spots a female he likes, he performs an intricate dance by swinging back and forth mid-air while she observes from a nearby perch. It was undoubtedly the highlight of the morning walk.
If you want to learn more about hummingbirds, read “Hummingbirds of North America: The Photographic Guide” by Steve N.G. Howell. HowStuffWorks recommends related titles based on books we think you’ll enjoy. If you decide to purchase any of these books, we will receive a portion of the sale.
Now That’s Interesting
Bee Hummingbird, native to Cuba and Isla de la Juventud, is the world’s smallest bird and hummingbird. It weighs less than 2 grams (0.070 ounces), which is less than a dime.
FAQ
1. What should I feed hummingbirds?
Hummingbirds primarily feed on nectar, which can be made by mixing four parts water to one part white granulated sugar. Avoid using honey, brown sugar, or artificial sweeteners as they can be harmful to hummingbirds.
2. What kind of feeder should I use?
Hummingbird feeders can be made of plastic, glass, or ceramic. Look for one with red or orange accents to attract hummingbirds. Make sure the feeder is easy to clean and has multiple feeding ports.
3. How often do I need to clean the feeder?
Hummingbird feeders should be cleaned at least once a week with hot water and a mild detergent. Rinse thoroughly and refill with fresh nectar.
4. Can I use food coloring in the nectar?
No, it is not recommended to use food coloring in hummingbird nectar. The dye can be harmful to birds and is not necessary to attract them to the feeder.
5. What plants can I grow to attract hummingbirds?
Hummingbirds are attracted to brightly colored flowers with trumpet shapes, such as honeysuckle, salvia, and fuchsia. Plant a variety of flowers to provide nectar throughout the season.
6. How can I protect hummingbirds from predators?
Place feeders and plants near cover such as trees or shrubs to give hummingbirds a place to escape from predators. Keep cats indoors and avoid using pesticides in the area.
7. When do hummingbirds migrate?
Hummingbirds typically migrate in the fall to warmer climates in Central and South America. They return to their breeding grounds in North America in the spring.
8. How can I help hummingbirds during migration?
Provide extra nectar and plant a variety of flowers to give hummingbirds a source of food during their long journey. Keep feeders clean and easily accessible.
9. What should I do if I find a baby hummingbird?
If you find a baby hummingbird that has fallen out of its nest, try to return it to the nest if possible. If the nest cannot be found or the baby is injured, contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator for assistance.
10. How long do hummingbirds live?
Hummingbirds typically live 3-5 years in the wild, although some have been known to live up to 10 years.
11. How do hummingbirds mate?
Male hummingbirds perform elaborate courtship displays to attract females. Once a female is interested, the male will perform a high-speed dive, making a loud popping sound with his wings. If successful, the male will mate with the female.
12. How can I participate in hummingbird research?
You can participate in citizen science projects such as Project FeederWatch or Hummingbird Monitoring Network to help gather data on hummingbird populations and behavior. Contact your local Audubon Society or birding club for more information.
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