4 Simple Ways to Help Hummingbirds (Page 2)

2. Put in hummingbird feeders, making sure to put several around your property because hummingbirds are very territorial and do not like to share feeders. And, because they like red, consider getting a red bird feeder, or add a red ribbon or red piece of material and hang it on the outside of the feeder so they can see it. However, avoid commercially prepared hummingbird mixes that have red coloring added to them, since they use artificial dyes that are not good for the birds. Instead, make your own, and fill your feeders with one part sugar and four parts water.

3. Provide a water source, preferably one that has movement, because the hummingbirds are attracted to moving sources of water. A fountain with moving water or a waterfall-type feature works well.

4. Create a place for them to find shelter. Even though they don’t rest long, they do need a place to rest as they make their migration south. So make sure there’s a safe and covered area for them.

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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!