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Get Your Hummingbird Feeders Ready!
It’s time…the migration has begun!
Hummingbirds have got to be one of the most anticipated of all migratory birds. Their antics at feeders is entrancing, I could watch for hours. The migration from Central and South America has begun, and the first birds should start appearing in the Southwest and Southern states in a few weeks. This is an exciting time for many backyard birding enthusiasts.
It’s time then to get hummingbird feeders ready for action, by making sure they’re clean, filled with fresh nectar, and in an obvious place where hummers can see them, you’ll start seeing these flying jewels in no time.
Hummingbirds also love water…moving water that is. Whether a birdbath fountain, leaf mister, or bubbler, you can bet that moving water attracts them and keeps them coming back daily.
The quick and easy nectar recipe: 4 parts water to 1 part plain table sugar.
Never substitute anything for white cane sugar as it will harm hummingbirds. It’s not even necessary to boil the water, but it helps to dissolve the sugar quickly and effectively. Store unused nectar in the fridge, and change old nectar in feeders at least twice a week. Nectar will stay fresher longer if hung in the shade too.
- Bird Accessories, Hummingbird Feeders, Misters and Birdbath Drippers, Uncategorized, Window Hummingbird Feeder
If You Use Window Hummingbird Feeders…
You Must Try Misters Too!
Hummingbirds are in a league of their own…if you already attract and feed them-nothing more need be said. They’re the most anticipated of all migratory birds, and practice site fidelity. So if you’ve successfully accommodated them, chances are good they’ll be back next season. Basin and tube style hummingbird feeders work wonderfully for feeding the tiny jewels, although window hummingbird feeders will give you the advantage of close-up views.
Aside from feeders and nectar-producing flowers to attract them, hummingbirds need fresh water. Sticky nectar requires much bathing for their tiny feathers to function properly. They LOVE moving water too! Fountains and bubblers create the perfect bathing spots for them, as they’re able to perch and hover over moving water.
Leaf misters are hands-down one of their favorites. We have two at home that have been in use for several years. One mounted on the front porch rail, and one wrapped around a ground stake on the side of the house. Every year, we attract many hummers with this gentle misting spray, it’s an amazing site to behold!
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Human Hummingbird Feeder?
This is too cool!A lady in LA actually trained these hummingbirds to eat from her hand. The tiny flying jewels have very brave hearts and will do this when they’re familiar with, and comfortable around their human hosts.
These photos are not altered in any way, this woman lives in a hummingbird fly zone. As the birds migrated, a large group of 15-20 of them were in her yard. She used the red dish from the hummingbird feeder, filled it with sugar water and this was the amazing result.
Her name is Abagail Alfano of Pine, Louisiana – she has been studying her hummingbirds daily. One morning she decided to see if her hummers would feed from her hands. As the hummers had gotten used to her standing by the feeder, they came over to drink from the dish. She says they are as light as a feather. Abagail also said, if she had known her husband was taking pictures she would have put on makeup.
Thanks Mr. and Mrs. Alfano for the wonderful photos!
Birding Tips, Information & News
This is too cool!