A Guide to Feeding Hummingbirds

Hummingbirds are truly amazing animals! These tiny birds are usually only a few inches in length and less than an ounce in weight. Their wings can beat as fast as 63 beats per minute, especially when they're escaping from danger or performing a diving maneuver. Feeding hummingbirds is probably the best way to bring them to your yard or garden. Regardless of what species you're trying to attract, all hummingbirds want the same thing -- nectar.

There are two basic ways to feed hummingbirds. One is by placing hummingbird feeders in your yard or garden. A hummingbird feeder is bottle shaped and normally crafted from plastic or glass. There are little holes in the feeder that allow the hummingbird to drink the nectar using their long, needle-like beak. You'll find hummingbird feeders that are basic clear plastic, those that are colored, and even hand painted ones made from glass. A red feeder is especially attractive because hummingbirds love bright, vibrant colors. If you don't have a red feeder, try tying some red ribbon around the feeder that you do have. You can buy a hummingbird feeder, or make your own using a simple glass or plastic bottle and some wire for hanging. If you don't have a tree nearby, try hanging your feeder from a tall, curved shepherd's hook that you simply push into the soil to install.

The other way to feed hummingbirds is by planting nectar-bearing shrubs and flowers. Go for trumpet-shaped blooms in bright shades of red, fuschia, orange and purple. Hummingbirds love flowers like Azalea, Red Columbine, Morning Glory, Fuschia, Butterfly Bush, Bee Balm, Lilies, Impatiens, and many others. There are lots of books out there that show you specific layouts for hummingbird gardens that encompass both sunny and shady areas. You can also inquire at your local garden shop about the best flowers available for hummingbirds. Be sure to provide a water source, because although these birds don't drink much, they do drink.

Feeding hummingbirds can be a rewarding hobby that you and your family can do together. Children especially enjoy getting out in nature with their parents or grandparents, digging in the dirt and making things grow. And after your garden is complete, you get to enjoy the benefits! Many birdwatchers like taking photos of the hummingbirds that come to eat. This is a pursuit for the very patient -- but it does pay off!

Copyright 2006 Frances Coleman - All Rights Reserved

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