Whether you’re attracting hummingbirds for the first time, or you just need a quick refresher, here’s a guide on how to attract hummers to your yard. Make your yard a desirable place for these lovely birds with these helpful hummingbird tips!
1. Proper Feeder Location
Place your hummingbird feeder at least 5 feet off the ground and 6 feet from other nearby feeders. Choose an open spot where it’s easy for the birds to notice it. Once the hummers start frequenting the feeder, you may move it to a shadier spot not far from bushes and shrubs. This helps the nectar stay fresh for longer while continuing to give them a 360 degree view of their territory, so they can keep an eye on approaching predators.
When inviting hummingbirds to your yard, remember that it can take some time for them to become familiar with a new feeder. However, due to the hummingbird’s loyal nature, they will frequently return to feeders they’ve come to recognize as a reliable food source.
2. Clean Your Feeder Regularly
Give your feeder a full cleaning every 3 to 4 days, and even more frequently when it’s hot out. This prevents the growth of mold and bacteria, both of which can be harmful to hummingbirds. For a simple cleaning solution, mix 2 parts vinegar with 1 part water. Let the feeder soak in this solution for about 30 minutes, scrub with good brush, rinse, then air dry the feeder in the sun. Some sources will suggest using diluted bleach or soap solutions in order to bolster your defenses against mold growth. If you choose to go this route, we urge you to proceed with caution. Any leftover residues from these could mix with the fresh nectar and harm the birds. Just be extra thorough with the rinsing if you do choose to use one of these cleaning solutions.
3. Use Fresh Nectar
When refilling with fresh nectar, you have a couple of options. You can purchase concentrated or powdered nectars that you mix with water, or you can find nectars that are premixed and ready to pour straight into the feeder. Hummingbirds will enjoy either, so this really just comes down to personal preference. For convenient storage though, use this labeled container–the Super Shaker Nectar Maker!–to set your homemade nectar apart from the beverages in your fridge. You’re going to be grateful you’re feeding the hummingbirds fresh, wholesome nectar–and not lemonade by mistake!
Once you’ve seen a hummingbird or two in your yard, you can encourage them to stay and nest nearby with a nesting platform. Place a hummingbird platform under the eaves of your house to provide shelter from the weather. This will also give them a great view of their surroundings, protecting them from predators. You may need to offer nesting material as well, so the lovely hummingbirds can line their nests with soft, warm material that fluffs right back up after the rain.
5. Provide Places to Perch
For a little bit of hummingbird fun, you can provide a hummingbird swing. Watching hummingbirds gently sway on this accessory is a great way to enjoy their company. If you catch them at the right moment, it looks just as if they are posing for a picture! Follow these useful tips and your backyard can become a hummingbird hot spot before you can say, “Hummzinger!” Happy Birding!
