Hummingbird Habitat

Hummingbirds have always been a fascination of bird lovers!  These colorful and amazing birds’ wingbeats have been recorded as fast as 80 beats per second.  The Ruby-throated and the Rufous are the most common species in North America.   These birds are relentless in their quest for food and will not disappoint your gardening efforts.

There are a variety of plants that can be added to your landscape that will attract hummingbirds.  A mixture of flowering plants that include brilliant colored perennials, annuals, bulbs, vines and shrubs can be used to enhance your landscape and attract hummingbirds.  Consult your local nursery or landscape expert for the native plants and migration season for your particular region.

Hummingbirds feed 3 to 5 times per hour to keep up their energy and have no sense of smell.  The nectar-filled flowers they are attracted to will not be fragrant, but will certainly add color to your property.  Plan your planting with overlapping blooming periods so your birds will always have a source of nectar to keep them interested in your yard.

To increase the attraction, hang a bright colored hummingbird feeder.  You may need more than one feeder depending on the size of your property.  Keep your feeder clean and filled with a solution of 1 part sugar to 4 parts water and nothing else.  Honey can cause death so just use sugar.  Your feeders should be cleaned a few times a week to ensure your hummingbirds are kept healthy.  Keep a clean source of water close by as well and make sure your habitat has areas of sun as well as shade.