Can you train hummingbird to come to you?

Hummingbirds are some of the most fascinating birds in the world. Their ability to hover mid-air and dart around with lightning speed makes them a joy to watch. Their bright, iridescent feathers shimmer in the sunlight, captivating anyone who sees them.

Many people wonder if it is possible to tame these wild creatures. Could you train a hummingbird to come to you, like a pet? The prospect seems unlikely for such a small, delicate bird. However, with the right techniques and plenty of patience, it is possible to build trust with hummingbirds so they will willingly approach you.

Why Do Hummingbirds Come Close to People?

Hummingbirds are naturally curious, energetic creatures. They will explore anything new and different in their environments. This includes human-made objects like feeders and gardens. Hummingbirds also have excellent memories. Once they know a feeder provides a reliable source of food, they will remember its location and return to it repeatedly.

The best way to get hummingbirds comfortable around you is by offering them sweet nectar. Hummingbirds get most of their nutrients from flower nectar and tree sap. By providing a feeder with homemade or store-bought nectar, you can create an attractive food source. With regular feeding and minimal disturbances, hummingbirds will learn to associate you with the feeder.

Setting Up A Hummingbird Feeder

To encourage hummingbirds to visit, the feeder setup needs to be inviting. Follow these tips:

• Locate it in an open area of your yard where hummingbirds can easily spot it.
• Use red or brightly colored feeders since hummingbirds are attracted to bold colors.
• Situate it near natural sources of nectar like flowers or trees.
• Replace the “nectar” (sugar/water mixture) every few days before it spoils.
• Consider multiple feeders placed at different heights to accommodate more birds.
• Ensure the feeders are firmly secured so they won’t sway or tip in wind.

With a good location and fresh nectar, hummingbirds will discover your feeder. But it takes more effort before they will trust you enough to get close.

Letting the Hummingbirds Adjust

At first, allow the hummingbirds to feed without getting too close to them. Sitting nearby and letting them get accustomed to your presence is better than approaching immediately. Moving slowly and keeping noise to a minimum will help them feel at ease.

Be patient. It may take days or weeks before hummingbirds let their guard down. Avoid sudden movements or loud noises that startle them. Maintain a quiet, calm demeanor and refrain from reaching for them. Over time, they will become comfortable in your company at the feeder.

Gently Interacting with the Hummingbirds

Once the hummingbirds reliably return to the feeder and feed calmly around you, you can attempt gentle interaction.

Here are some tips:

• Talk softly to the hummingbirds when they are perched at the feeder.
• Slowly move your hand closer to the feeder while they are eating. This helps them associate your hand with the food source.
• Offer your hand as a perch by holding it near the feeder opening. Some brave hummingbirds may land on your fingers!
• Move very slowly when interacting to avoid startling them away.
• Avoid excess noise from electronics, music, or chatter which can scare them off.

With continued exposure, the hummingbirds will learn to trust your presence. Your goal is to create a safe, positive association between you and the feeder.

Using Hand Feeding to Form a Bond

The most direct way to build trust with hummingbirds is by hand feeding them nectar. This takes time and extreme patience, but results in an unforgettable experience.

To hand feed, sit perfectly still and hold your hand near the feeder with nectar dripping from your fingers. Once the hummingbird is comfortable lands on your hand to drink, you can slowly move your hand closer to your body, allowing the bird to follow.

This teaches the hummingbird that your hand is a feeding source. With repeated hand feeding, the hummingbird will associate you directly with food. Some exceptionally tame hummingbirds will start flying to you anytime you go outside!

Always move slowly and let the hummingbird voluntarily approach your hand. Never grab at it. And stop feeding immediately if the bird seems distressed. The goal is to have the hummingbird choose to get close to you.

Creating a Hummingbird Friendly Yard

In addition to feeders, you can design your yard to be as attractive as possible to hummingbirds. This provides natural food sources they will visit daily:

Plants that Attract Hummingbirds

Other Attracting Features

• Fountains and misters – Provides drinking water
• Trees – Natural perches and food sources
• Bushes – Protection and nesting sites
• Native wildflowers – Variety of nectar options

Making these bird-friendly additions to your yard will get hummingbirds naturally stopping by daily.

Avoiding Common Mistakes

It’s important to be aware of some common mistakes that could hinder your progress with training hummingbirds:

• Trying to touch them – Refrain from petting or handling them
• Making quick, sudden movements – Move slowly and deliberately
• Letting feeders get dirty – Change nectar frequently
• Reaching for a resting/sleeping bird – Never disturb them
• Forgetting to refill feeders – Maintain a consistent food source
• Yelling or making loud noises – Keep noise minimal
• Approaching too soon – Give them lots of adjustment time

Avoiding these errors takes some self-discipline, but results in better trust from the hummingbirds.

Special Considerations

There are a few additional factors to keep in mind:

Seasonal Behavior

Hummingbirds in some regions migrate annually. During winter months, you may not see them. And males and females arrive at separate times in spring. Their behavior and feeding needs fluctuate throughout the year.

Territorialism

Hummingbirds are very territorial around feeders. Dominant males may chase other birds away. Having multiple feeders helps reduce squabbles.

Nesting

Hummingbirds build tiny, well-camouflaged nests. Never disturb a nest you find as the mother may abandon it. Ensure your interaction takes place away from nesting areas.

Differences by Species

Some hummingbird species are naturally tamer or more urban adapted. Get to know your local varieties and their tendencies.

Conclusion

With time and persistence, many people have successfully trained hummingbirds to willingly feed from their hands and closely approach them. The keys are providing a consistent food source, moving slowly to build trust, attracting the birds naturally to your yard, and avoiding excess noise or contact.

Forming a bond with these energetic little birds is extremely rewarding. A tame hummingbird that buzzes right up to you seeking a snack is a joy. With the right dedication and technique, you can create a positive experience for both you and the hummingbirds in your area. Just be patient and let the hummingbirds decide on getting close to you when they feel fully comfortable.