Hummingbirds are often referred to as nature’s jewels because of their vibrant colors and tiny size. Seeing these flying gems visit your garden can be a treat for you as well as for the birds.
If you are a gardener or bird lover, you may have wondered how to attract hummingbirds to your yard. In this post, we will explore some tips and tricks to help you create a hummingbird paradise in your garden in five easy steps.
Provide Food
The first step to attracting hummingbirds to your garden is to offer them their favorite food. They love sugar water and red flowers.
Plant Hummingbird-Friendly Flowers
One of the best ways to attract hummingbirds to your garden is by planting flowers that produce nectar. Hummingbirds are attracted to bright, tubular flowers such as salvia, fuchsia, and bee balm.
They are also drawn to orange and red flowers, so consider planting zinnias or hibiscus. Make sure to plant these flowers in areas that receive plenty of sunlight and are easily accessible to hummingbirds.
Hang a Hummingbird Feeder
Another way to attract hummingbirds to your garden is by hanging a hummingbird feeder. Fill the feeder with a solution of four parts water to one part sugar. One important tip is to avoid adding red dye to the mixture, as it can be harmful to the birds.
Lulu Home Hummingbird Feeder, 12 Ounce Bird Flower Feeders with 4 Feeding Stations for Outside
It is important to change the solution regularly to prevent bacteria growth. You can also purchase special hummingbird feeders that have flower-shaped feeding stations to mimic the birds’ natural feeding habits. Set up your feeder in a sunny spot.
Add a Water Feature
Hummingbirds love to splash in water and are attracted to the sound and movement of water. Consider adding a bird bath or fountain to your garden to provide them with a source of fresh, moving water.
Alpine Corporation DIG100XS w/LED Light Water Jar Fountain, 32 Inch Tall, Turquoise
You can also place a dripper or mister near your hummingbird feeder to create a gentle stream of water. Make sure to clean the water regularly, or it can be a breeding ground for mosquitoes.
Provide Nesting Materials
Hummingbirds are known for their incredible speed and agility, but did you know they are also master builders? These tiny birds use an array of materials to construct their nests, ranging from spider silk and moss to plant down and lichen.
However, their go-to nesting material might surprise you – it’s soft and downy like cotton, but it’s not cotton at all. Hummingbirds primarily use the fibers from plant fluff, such as thistle down or cottonwood seeds, creating a cozy and sturdy home for their offspring. So the next time you catch a glimpse of a hummingbird flitting about, take a moment to appreciate the impressive skill and attention to detail that goes into their nests.
If you want to attract hummingbirds to your garden year after year, provide them a place to nest. They usually nest near their food source. Near their feeder, in shrubs or trees with open branches.
Create a Safe Habitat
Provide places for Hummingbirds to rest, especially in shade or shelter from the wind. You can place feeders or flowers near trees, bushes, or pergolas, where they can rest while still being protected from predators.
Hummingbirds are prey to larger birds and predators such as cats. It is important to create a safe habitat for them to nest and rest. Plant shrubs and bushes near your feeding and watering stations to provide cover, and keep your garden free of standing water to prevent mosquito breeding.
Avoid Chemicals
Hummingbirds are sensitive to pesticides and chemicals. Avoid using them in your garden, which can harm hummingbirds and the insects they rely on for food. If you want to attract and keep hummingbirds, opt for organic gardening practices like companion planting or natural pest control.
Enjoy Watching Hummingbirds
Once you have attracted hummingbirds to your garden, take some time to sit back and watch them. Hummingbirds are fascinating creatures to observe, with their hovering flight and lightning-fast wing beats. You may even see them perform aerial courtship displays or find a nest hidden in your garden.
Attracting hummingbirds to your garden can be a fun and rewarding experience for any nature lover. By planting hummingbird-friendly flowers, hanging a feeder, adding a water feature, and creating a safe habitat, you can create a welcoming environment for these unique birds.
Watching hummingbirds will not only add beauty to your garden but also give you a sense of satisfaction and pleasure at being able to provide a suitable habitat for these tiny delights.
Happy Birding!