Very few people can resist the feeling of magic brought on by the sight of a hummingbird hovering near a flower. People instinctively lower their voice and speak in whispers when they sight these visitors. Whether you have a garden as small as an apartment balcony or as large as a country estate, there are things you can do to welcome these amazing birds.

Nature's Way
The ruby-throated hummingbird is the variety that visits our area each summer. As unbelievable as it may seem, these birds spend their winters in Mexico and Central America. And we are not even its farthest summer home.

Some hummingbirds continue to fly past us hundreds of miles into Canada. Each fall, they migrate south. They follow the same route back the next year, even to the exact same yard. Only the male ruby-throated hummingbird has a bright red throat. Both sexes are iridescent green on their back and heads and have a white underside. They average below 4 inches in length. These diminutive birds build tiny nests and rear 2 or 3 young each year.

Hummingbirds are amazing creatures that have developed the ability to extract nectar from deep-throated flowers with their long, thin bills while hovering in mid air. Hovering requires a tremendous amount of energy, so they are very active feeders. Their primary food is nectar from flowers. In early spring, before the flowers are blooming, they often drink sap from tree wounds created by woodpeckers. Hummingbirds supplement the sugars from nectar and sap with insects for protein.

Plants for Hummingbirds
To attract them to your garden, include several plants with tubular flowers that bloom over a long period of time. At first, they will be drawn to your garden by bright colors (red and orange). Once there, they will check out all flowers, no matter what color. Included on this information sheet are lists of the different types of plants that attract hummingbirds. Fuchsias are great because they are one of a hummingbird's favorite foods. A hanging basket of fuchsia, which can bloom for months, can be added to almost any garden space, including the balcony of an apartment. You do not have to sacrifice garden design by trying to include all these plants. Try selecting a few that work with your design. In addition to a source of nectar, hummingbirds need trees and shrubs for shelter and nesting.

Supplemental Feeding
Natural sources of food should be supplemented by feeders. Hummingbird feeders are designed to provide a sugar-water solution. Hang them in a shady area that is open enough that the tiny birds won't fall prey to cats.

Be sure to keep the feeders clean. It is essential to clean them frequently. In warm air the sweet liquid can quickly allow growth of molds and bacteria that may kill hummingbirds. Syrup can be made from commercial mixes or by combining 4 parts water and 1 part sugar (do not use honey). Heat the mixture to dissolve the sugar, cool before using and keep any extra syrup in the refrigerator until needed. It is important to consistently provide this supplemental food for your visiting hummingbirds.

Plants That Attract Hummingbirds

Recommended Products and Information
Quality Feeders and Bird Feeds
Landscaping for Wildlife by MN DNR, C. Henderson

Bachman's Information Sheet
Planting to Attract Birds
Wild About Birds by MN DNR, C. Henderson

© Bachman's 2007