The Ruby-throated Hummingbirds are back! These diminutive but scrappy little speedsters make remarkable journeys to and from their wintering grounds in the south, including a non-stop flight across the Gulf of Mexico/America!
Hummingbirds, especially Ruby-throats, follow the northward migration of Yellow-bellied Sapsuckers in the spring. They depend on the sapsuckers’ sap well orchards as an early spring nectar source since few flowers are yet in bloom. While many gardeners dislike sapsuckers, these interesting and industrious woodpeckers play an important role in supporting biodiversity. Not only do moths nectar at their orchards during the night, daytime insects such as butterflies and bees, will feed during the day. These insects will be dined on by such desirable backyard birds as warblers and chickadees. Cedar Waxwings will also avail themselves of the ooze at sap well orchards.
Hummingbirds also love to bathe in both shallow water as well as in water mist. Water misters, which attach to the end of a garden hose, are commercially available. Direct the mist towards a nearby shrub so the birds have the choice of flying through the mist or sitting on a branch to bathe.
Speaking of branches, hummers love to chill between feedings, so they will often land on a small dead branch to rest, groom and sleep. Dead branches, especially long ones that extend beyond a living tree, will also be used by male hummers to watch and guard their kingdom.
The best plantings for hummers include Cuphea spp. (cigar/firecracker plant), delphinium, fuchsia, scarlet runner bean, scarlet lychnis, Savlia spp. and cardinal flower. While natural food sources are much healthier for them than sugar water, hummingbird feeders provide a supplemental food source and will bring the birds in for close viewing. Make a homemade syrup by dissolving one-part white sugar (sucrose) in four parts hot water. Never use honey, artificial sweeteners, fruit juices, flavoured drinks or pop, and never add food colouring. If possible, hang hummer feeders in the shade. Replace the syrup and clean all feeders every few days, especially during hot weather.
Enjoy the hummers!
Myrna Pearman is the Resident Naturalist at Chin Ridge Seeds. She is a retired biologist, nature writer, photographer and author of several books. Her books are available at www.myrnapearman.com. She can be reached at myrna@myrnapearman.com.
