4 Simple Ways To Help Hummingbirds

The drought that has gripped much of the United States is impacting hummingbirds as they begin their migration south, an annual event that usually goes from July to October. Once they move to the southern United States, they fly across the Gulf of Mexico to their winter home in Central America.

But their natural sources of food, mainly native wildflowers, have been hit hard by the drought that has hit many states. This means that they are in search of food and water sources.

You can help by providing these in your garden. Here are some ways to provide migrating hummingbirds with the food and water they need:

1. Plant flowers that attract the hummingbirds. Typically, these are native flowers that have the nectar that the birds are looking for. While they are attracted to red flowers, you don’t have to limit yourself to red. The birds also like orange and yellow. Regardless of color, they like flowers that are tubular shaped. Just make sure to plant things that have plenty of nectar like salvia, bee balm, columbine, coral-bells, and penstemon.

An added benefit for other birds of the plants you grow is that insects are one of the biggest food sources for birds, so the plants you grow become a source of insects for them. The birds will help keep the insects under control. You will also increase the appeal of the garden for birds by eliminating the use of pesticides and gardening organically.

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Disclaimer: The views expressed above are solely those of the author and may not reflect those of
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Sonia M.

1:07PM PDT on Apr 16, 2013

Great tips Thanks for sharing

April 16
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Melania P.

9:20AM PST on Feb 11, 2013

Thanks, so shared!

February 11
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Fred H.

1:00PM PST on Jan 11, 2013

Thank you Judi, for Sharing this!

January 11
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Sylvia W.

12:46PM PDT on Sep 22, 2012

When I first moved to my little motel in the NY Catskills I had only gotten fleeting glimpses of hummers in among the blooming beach plums on Long Island. Here, however, I found myself abruptly in prime Rubythroat territory. I started with a couple feeders, trying different types until I found what my visitors preferred and was safe (bear country). By the time I had been here 5 years I was up to thirty feeders ranging from 20 tiny tube feeders to a few larger ones with two to four ports, up to a couple with perches for up to 6 to feed at a time. It is time (and sugar!) consuming keeping up with their demands, but the sheer glory of their flitting colors, the amusement at their antics, and the pleasure my guests get - it is so worth it! They rest at night in any of the shrubs or the apple trees, they have access to a bird bath with a small burbling fountain. In my organic raised beds I have a wide variety of nectar flowers for their enjoyment. These also attract butterflies and bees - honey and native. Love it ;-) I highly recommend giving it a try if you can!