For many people, watching hummingbirds dart back and forth is one of the many joys of gardening and birdwatching. Not only are they fascinating to watch, but they also bring a touch of magic to your garden with their iridescent feathers and their mesmerizing flight.
If you want to attract hummingbirds to your garden, one of the easiest and most effective ways to do so is by setting up a hummingbird feeder. In this post, we’ll share some tips on how to attract hummingbirds to your feeder so you can enjoy these beautiful birds up close.
Choose the Right Feeder
The first step in attracting hummingbirds to your garden is to select the right feeder. One of the most important things to consider when choosing a feeder is the color.
Hummingbirds are drawn to bright, vibrant colors like red, orange, and pink. There are several different types of feeders available in the market, but the most popular ones are the glass feeders with bright red or yellow accents.
We like these easy to clean Saucer Humming Bird Feeders.
MEKKAPRO Outdoor Hummingbird Feeder Made from Red Glass
These colors attract hummingbirds as they associate them with nectar-bearing flowers. You’ll also want to select a feeder that has a sturdy hanger and is easy to clean.
There are many types of hummingbird feeders available, including glass, plastic, and ceramic ones. The feeder should have at least two feeding ports to accommodate more birds.
Make Your Own Nectar Solution
Hummingbirds are attracted to nectar, so make your own nectar solution instead of buying pre-made ones. Mix one part of white granulated sugar with four parts of warm water.
Stir until the sugar is completely dissolved, warm if necessary, then let it cool down before pouring it into the feeder. Make sure not to add any food coloring, as it can be harmful to the birds.
Here is a dye free nectar solution – Kaytee Hummingbird ElectroNectar
Do not use honey, as it can promote bacterial growth in the feeder. You can also purchase premade nectar mix from the store, but make sure it doesn’t contain any dye or artificial sweeteners.
Choose the Right Location
Just as important as the feeder itself, the location is also crucial. Place your feeder in a spot that’s visible to hummingbirds but also has enough shade to keep the nectar from spoiling too quickly.
Wall Mounted Heavy Duty Deck Hook
2-Pack Heavy Duty Double Shepherds Hooks Garden Pole fo Hanging Bird Feeders
Avoid placing the feeder in direct sunlight, as it can cause the nectar to ferment and mold to grow on the feeder. Place your feeder in an area that has good visibility so you can see the hummingbirds as they feed, but away from windows or doors so that the birds can avoid accidentally flying into them.
Collision Decal – UV-Reflective Window Decal to Protect Wild Birds from Glass Collisions
It should also be put up high enough so that neighborhood cats or other predators can’t get to it.
Plant a Garden to Attract Hummingbirds
You can also make your garden more hummingbird-friendly by planting flowers that are rich in nectar. Flowers like salvia, bee balm, trumpet vine, and columbine are popular among hummingbirds.
How to Attract Hummingbirds to Your Garden in 5 Easy Steps
You can also add a birdbath, which serves as a source of fresh water and a place for hummingbirds to bathe.
Keep the Feeder Clean
Regular cleaning is essential to keep your hummingbird feeder in good condition and free from contamination. This step is especially important during hot weather when the nectar can spoil quickly.
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Clean the feeder at least once a week using hot soapy water, and rinse it thoroughly before refilling it with fresh nectar. Replace the nectar every few days, even if it hasn’t been emptied, to prevent the growth of bacteria and mold.
Be Patient and Observe
Hummingbirds are attracted to the color of the feeder, the nectar, and the flowers in the garden. But attracting them can take time, so you need to be patient and observant.
It may take a few days or weeks for the hummingbirds to discover your feeder and become regular visitors.
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Stay still and watch the feeder from a distance. Once the hummingbirds have found your feeder, make sure to keep it full of fresh nectar so they keep returning.
Attracting hummingbirds to your yard is easier than you might think. By following these tips and tricks, you can have these magnificent creatures grace your backyard with their presence all season long.
Nature experience and well-being
Remember, patience is key, as some birds may take time to discover your feeder. So, hang in there, and soon, your garden will become a paradise for hummingbirds.
Happy birding!