Hummingbirds are beautiful and fascinating creatures that can add a delightful touch to any yard or garden. If you’re interested in attracting them to your outdoor space, there are several things you can do to make your yard a more welcoming habitat for these tiny birds.
One of the most important factors in attracting hummingbirds is providing them with a reliable source of food. Hummingbirds are attracted to brightly colored flowers that are rich in nectar, so planting a variety of flowering shrubs, trees, and vines is a great way to encourage them to visit your yard. You can also set up a hummingbird feeder filled with a sugar-water solution, which will provide a consistent source of food for these birds.
In addition to food, hummingbirds also need access to clean water for drinking and bathing. You can create a small pond or fountain in your yard, or simply set out a shallow dish of water that is changed regularly to keep it fresh.
Hummingbirds also need shelter and nesting areas to feel at home in your yard. You can provide these by planting shrubs and trees that offer cover and nesting spots, or by installing nesting boxes specifically designed for hummingbirds.
It’s important to create a diverse and inviting habitat for hummingbirds by planting a variety of different shrub species that will attract a range of different hummingbird species. This will ensure that your yard is a welcoming and thriving environment for these fascinating and beautiful creatures. With a little effort and attention to detail, you can create a hummingbird haven right in your own backyard.
But let’s skip all the planting and gardening and go for the easiest option, Feeding them! This roundup is all about Food for the Hummingbirds in your yard. You will need to make a hummingbird feeder or you can buy them here
. I love these ones that sit on the window. Hummingbird Window feeders.
The color red has a special significance for hummingbirds. These birds have an instinctual attraction to the color red, and will often investigate anything red that catches their eye. This is why many hummingbird feeders are designed with red plastic or red glass to attract these birds to the feeder.
In addition to using red feeders, you can also attract hummingbirds to your garden by planting red flowers. Some popular red flowers for hummingbirds include bee balm, cardinal flower, and red hot poker. These flowers are rich in nectar and provide an excellent food source for hummingbirds.
If you want to provide hummingbirds with a more reliable source of nectar, you can make your own hummingbird food at home. Simply mix one part white granulated sugar with four parts water, and heat the mixture until the sugar dissolves. Once the mixture has cooled, you can fill your hummingbird feeder with the solution and hang it in your yard.
It’s important to note that while hummingbirds are attracted to the color red, it’s not the only color they will visit. Hummingbirds are also drawn to other bright colors, such as orange, pink, and purple. So, if you’re not a fan of red, you can still attract these birds to your yard by planting a variety of colorful flowers.
Did you know that hummingbirds use spider webs as the main ingredient in their nests. So, next time you’re cleaning up your yard, be sure to avoid knocking down any spiderwebs you see. These webs can provide important nesting material for these fascinating birds, and preserving them can help support local hummingbird populations.
Hummingbird Nectar Recipe | Smithsonian Migratory Bird Center
How to Make Hummingbird Nectar | Audubon
The Best Homemade Hummingbird Food Recipe | Bless This Mess
The 2020 Hummingbird Food Guide (Easy Nectar Recipe + FAQ)
A Super Easy Recipe for Hummingbird Food
Looking for more feeders? Check out these handmade hummingbird feeders made by local crafters on Etsy.
While there are many commercial nectar options available, it’s also very easy to make your own hummingbird food at home using a simple recipe.
To make hummingbird nectar food, all you need is white granulated sugar and water. Mix one part sugar with four parts water in a saucepan or pot. For example, if you want to make one cup of nectar, you should use one cup of sugar and four cups of water. Heat the mixture on the stove, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves completely. Once the sugar is dissolved, remove the pot from the heat and let the mixture cool completely.
It’s important to note that you should not add red dye to the nectar. While hummingbirds are attracted to the color red, there is no need to add dye to the nectar to attract them to your feeder. The bright red color of the feeder itself is usually enough to catch their attention.
Once your nectar has cooled, you can fill your hummingbird feeder with the solution and hang it in a sunny spot in your yard. It’s important to change the nectar every three to four days, especially during hot weather, to prevent spoilage or the growth of harmful bacteria.
By making your own hummingbird nectar at home, you can ensure that the food you provide for these fascinating birds is free of artificial additives and preservatives, and you can save money on commercial nectar products. It’s a simple and effective way to support hummingbird populations in your area and to enjoy the beauty of these amazing birds in your own backyard.
Classic Hummingbird Nectar Recipe (Sugar Water)
Ingredients:
1 cup white granulated sugar
4 cups water
Instructions:
Bring the water to a boil (this helps the sugar dissolve and sterilizes the solution).
Remove from heat and stir in the sugar until fully dissolved.
Let the nectar cool to room temperature.
Fill your clean hummingbird feeder with the nectar.
Store any extra in the fridge for up to a week.
Important: Never use honey, brown sugar, or artificial sweeteners. They can harm hummingbirds.
Fruit-Infused Hummingbird Nectar Recipe (Natural Scent Variation)
Ingredients:
1 cup white granulated sugar
4 cups water
1 small slice of organic orange or apple (for infusion)
Instructions:
Boil the water and add the sugar, stirring until dissolved.
Remove from heat and add a small slice of fruit (no seeds or rind).
Let it steep while the nectar cools for about 30 minutes.
Remove the fruit and strain the liquid if needed.
Pour into your feeder once completely cool.
This recipe mimics the scent of real flowers and can sometimes attract curious hummingbirds — but only use a small amount of fruit, and don’t let it ferment. Clean feeders often!
