How to Entice Hummingbirds to Your Backyard With Exceptional Feeders
Are you looking to attract the delightful flutter of hummingbirds to your backyard? If so, you’ll need the right feeders to catch their attention and keep them coming back for more. These incredible creatures are not your typical seed-eating birds and have specific dietary needs that can be met with the right feeder.
Hummingbirds consume nectar from flowers, small insects, and spiders and require a high daily food intake to sustain their unique flight behavior. Their ability to hover with a rotational movement makes them a fascinating species to observe, but also means they need a lot of energy to maintain their flight.
Let’s dive into the world of hummingbird feeders and explore the best options for attracting these feathered friends to your outdoor space!
Creating a Welcoming Environment for Hummingbirds
Before we delve into the different feeder options available, it’s essential to create an inviting habitat for hummingbirds in your backyard. These birds are attracted to brightly-colored tubular flowers like trumpet vines, bee balm, and fuchsia. Providing a shallow birdbath or a dripping water source can also be appealing to them.
Hummingbirds are known to return to environments that suit their needs, so creating a welcoming space with flowers, water sources, and feeders can make your backyard a favorite hangout spot for these tiny creatures.
The Best Hummingbird Feeders: 5 Must-Have Models
To attract hummingbirds to your yard, you’ll need the right feeder. Here are five exceptional models that cater to the needs and habits of these fascinating birds:
1. Oasis by Woodstream Hummingbird
- Hanging style with brass rod included
- 16-ounce shatterproof plastic reservoir
- Red top with clear basin
- Six yellow feeding stations
- Drip-free with ant moat and bee guards
- Made in the USA with a 30-day warranty
2. Hummzinger Ultra by Aspects Inc.
- Hanging style with metal rod
- 12-ounce polycarbonate plastic reservoir
- Clear basin with red plastic lid
- Four feeding stations with nectar guard tips
- Drip- and leak-proof with ant moat
- Made in the USA with a lifetime warranty
3. Bee and Wasp Proof Copper Feeder
- Hanging style with built-in copper twist hanger
- One feeding station with two one-ounce nectar containers
- Bee-proof solid copper construction
- Made in the USA with a lifetime guarantee
4. Homestead Etched Hardened Glass
- Hanging style with hardened glass and plastic construction
- 12-ounce etched glass reservoir with decorative design
- Four feeding stations with bee guards and ant moat
- Made in the USA
5. Droll Yankees Window Mount
- Window-mount style with UV-stabilized plastic construction
- 12-ounce capacity with two feeding stations
- Clear and red top pieces for easy filling and cleaning
- Nectar guard tips and port brush included
- Made in the USA with a lifetime guarantee
Watching Hummingbirds Up Close
A hummingbird feeder provides an excellent opportunity to observe these birds up close and appreciate their beauty. Placing feeders at a height of at least four feet can help keep them out of reach of animals and children while providing a safe dining spot for the birds.
While commercial nectars are available, making your own with sugar and spring water is a healthy and cost-effective option. Avoid adding red food coloring and purchase dyed nectar, as the impact on bird health is uncertain. Always remember to clean your feeder regularly with mild detergent and bleach solution to ensure the birds’ well-being.
Attracting wild birds to your backyard is a rewarding and educational hobby that the whole family can enjoy. By setting up feeders and creating a welcoming environment, you can turn your outdoor space into a hummingbird haven.
If you found this guide helpful, be sure to explore our recommendations for standard bird feeders as well. Happy birdwatching!
With a touch of creativity and detailed information, this article has been transformed into a comprehensive guide for attracting hummingbirds to your backyard. From choosing the right feeder to creating a welcoming environment, these tips will help you enjoy the company of these fascinating birds in your outdoor space.
