Magic in the Air!

While most birds do not have any difficulty finding food for themselves in the spring, summer and fall, there is one exception to that rule. Our everyday (I won’t ever call them ordinary) birds, the ones that frequent our gardens throughout the year, know very well how to forage for seeds, nuts and bugs. However there is a bird that frequents us in the nicer months and I’m sure that everyone would love to have them in their gardens especially through the summer months. Right now they are on their way to us, migrating thousands of miles in order to make it to our backyards. They are so little and so pretty, about the size of a mouse, only much more colourful and faster than a speeding bullet.

If you look at the migratory maps, you can see where these lovelies have been spotted already and watch their quickening arrivals on our shores. Every year there is a Hummingbird Migration Map put out, so that you can record the first sightings of these migratory birds. This image is the map for 2015.

As you can see, they travel a long distance to make it to us and so when they arrive and all along their journey northwards, they love to stop at red feeders that are filled with sugar water, so that they can have the energy to continue on their way.

Scientists believe that the Ruby Throated Hummingbirds can spot the red colored feeders from miles away and will make a bee line for those feeders. Being such tiny creatures, they need lots of energy in a food source that is easy for them to metabolize. Sugar water is just the thing for them. Put the feeders out in the spring time and watch what happens.

You have choices when it comes to feeders, but the three I have showcased for you here, are probably the top three models of feeders that catch the eyes of the “Hummers”.

You also want a feeder that is easy to clean. Sugar water needs to be replaced and replenished daily. Start with a feeder with only a little bit of sugar water in it. Once you know that you have Hummers coming to visit the feeder, increase the amount of sugar water in the reservoir. Put the feeder somewhere where the red is visible from the skies, but also close to some bushes so that the little Hummers can rest in safety. If you are really lucky, they may even choose to nest in the available shrubbery and you will be witness to the birth of the next generation of these beauties.

If you have time to watch, and see what all the excitement is about these birds, then check out this YouTube overview and you will begin to understand why people are so fascinated with these little critters.

Once you fall in love with these little Mini-Mites, you will understand why so many people put out these hummingbird feeders. Just to have a chance to see them up close and personal, is a treasure of nature that is unparalleled.

Perky-Pet 221 Hummingbird Oasis Feeder, 16-Ounce

First Nature 3091 16-Ounce Hummingbird Flower Feeder

Perky-Pet 209 Our Best Hummingbird Feeder, 30-Ounce

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Olivia Morris is a writer with many talents. She is passionate about many subjects and loves to share her knowledge and experiences on the internet. In particular she enjoys sharing details about the products she loves and recommends them thanks to her own personal experiences. In recent years, Olivia has become a passionate and experienced gardener and enjoys sharing her knowledge with you. See more about Olivia on her profile at The Writer’s Door. See more of her work at her website.