How Cool is That! - Hummingbirds

Excitement is starting to peak as some have seen hummingbirds in their yard.  Their return is a particularly welcome one for bird watchers.

To prepare for the hummingbird spring migration, Wild Birds Unlimited across the United States and Canada are stocking up on hummingbird  feeders, nectar and other products to intice these little birds to their yards.

First things first. It's time to put the hummingbird feeders out whether you have seen them or not.  It's important as the male scout is the first to arrrive with the female coming a week later.  Having the feeders up just before they arrive will increase the odds of them staying around. They've come a long way and are very hungry. 

To attract them, make sure your feeder is easily visible to any passing by. It often takes little more than putting out a feeder and keeping the nectar fresh.  You can buy nectar at the store or make your own, using 1 part sugar to 4 parts water. (Do not add red food coloring to the water.) Keeping the nectar fresh is crucial. Change the solution every three days when temperatures are above 80 degrees and every five days when temperatures are below 80. Because nectar goes bad outdoors, fill feeders only a small amount at a time. Any excess nectar can be stored in the refrigerator.

Hummingbirds have long memories, and if they can come to rely on your yard as a source for food, they'll return time and again. Having a feeder that is ready for them whenever they want it is essential to building a great hummingbird habitat that will improve year after year.

Hummingbirds are hardwired to search for certain types of flowers.  Use that instinct to your advantage by planting specific flower species in your yard to attract them.  It helps to place the feeder near flowers that are attractive to hummingbirds, which typically means anything with a trumpet or tubular-shaped body.  

Offer hummingbirds a source of water. They need to bath regularly, due to the sticky nature of nectar. They prefer very shallow, moving water, or a spray mist.  Wild Birds Unlimited has all the essentials to provide for your hummingbird needs.  Please go on our online store at mywbu.com/greenbay to place an order or call us at 920-489-2684 with any questions or concerns.

Happy Birding!