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Hummingbird Feeders Seeing Triple Activity
After switching from commercial nectar to the plain sugar-water solution, we’ve seen three times as many hummingbirds as before. For some reason, they seem to prefer the home made version with no additives better than packaged nectar products.Sometimes you have to look closely to see the liquid level in the clear glass hummingbird feeders, and folks always say “shouldn’t it be red?” but the hummingbirds just know. Even though the the glass and the nectar are clear in color, hummingbirds flock to these feeders now. Four feeders are emptied almost daily, and it’s always a site to behold… for sure!
Making your own nectar is so simple too. One cup plain table sugar to four cups of water – that’s it. No need to boil the water, but it does help to dissolve the sugar quicker and more thoroughly. Any microorganisms are actually spread by hummers themselves, as they are carried on their bills. Never use anything but pure cane sugar (white table sugar) as it’s harmful to the birds and may be fatal.
The other great hummingbird enticer is leaf misters. They love to flit back and forth in the gentle mist. Any moving water will attract hummingbirds, especially a fountain added to your birdbath.
Try your own nectar and notice the difference in hummingbird activity at your place…Happy Birding!
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Heated Bird Baths Do The Trick!
A heated bath in summer?An investment in a birdbath is well worth the visitors it will bring to your yard. If you’re thinking of a new one to replace the old chipped concrete one …or even your first one…consider heated bird baths if your winters are freezing. Just as important in sweltering summer heat, a constant fresh water source is crucial to birds when temperatures freeze. Many folks believe birds eat snow for water (and they can) but it’s very difficult for them to metabolize and burns precious calories needed to stay warm. Shallow ponds will also tend to freeze over when temperatures drop below 32 degrees, and this renders a consistent and reliable water source useless for birds.
Remember, the heater does not need to run to use the bath year-round. In our yard there are 3 heated bird baths running throughout winter. This is part of the reason our bluebirds stuck around all year. Likely it was the live meal worms that were the big attraction, but these baths ensured fresh water daily regardless of the weather.
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Bird Baths Will Have Them Flocking!
By and large, a fresh water source will attract more birds to your yard! The best single way to entice feathered friends is with bird baths. Many species who may never visit a feeder, or even use a birdhouse to nest, will visit a birdbath with fresh water in it. Many styles will compliment an environment nicely by using design elements that are found in nature itself.This hand made pedestal birdbath is also hand painted. Cheery Goldfinches perched on graceful branches is such a scene found in nature. These kinds of ceramic baths really do enhance the garden or yard, and bring it to life once discovered by birds.
The bath doesn’t have to be a pedestal type either, hanging bird baths are also wonderful for attracting birds. And if it’s a close-up view you’d like, deck-mount bird baths bring the action right to your window. Hanging and deck mounted bird baths are also perfect for smaller spaces. While birds tend to bathe at ground level in the wild, raised baths are preferred if predators lurk in the yard.
The optimal water depth for bird baths is really only two to three inches. This is the depth where birds can bathe and wade comfortably. If the birdbath is deeper, a large rock may be placed in the center for birds to perch. Adding a birdbath to your yard will positively impact the numbers and different species who will visit…try it and see!
Birding Tips, Information & News
