Both butterflies and hummingbirds are attracted to flowers for their nectar. However, they have some differences in the types of flowers they prefer due to their different feeding behaviors and morphologies.
Feeding behaviors
Butterflies and hummingbirds have very different feeding strategies when visiting flowers:
- Butterflies have long proboscises that they insert deep into flowers to sip nectar. They perch on top of flowers when feeding.
- Hummingbirds have short beaks and hover next to flowers, lapping up nectar with their long tongues. They do not land on flowers.
These behaviors mean that butterflies and hummingbirds often prefer flowers with certain characteristics:
Butterfly-preferred flowers
- Have long, tubular shapes to accommodate their long proboscises
- Provide sturdy landing platforms
- Are often red, purple, yellow or orange in color
Hummingbird-preferred flowers
- Have short, shallow tubes or open shapes for easier access
- Do not need to provide landing spots
- Are often red in color
Morphology
Butterflies and hummingbirds also differ physically in ways that influence their flower preferences:
Butterfly morphology
- Large, visible wings – can spot flowers from a distance
- Long proboscis – can reach nectar deep in tubular flowers
- Six legs – allows them to perch on flowers
Hummingbird morphology
- Small size and maneuverability – allows them to hover beside flowers
- Short beak – suited for lapping nectar from open or short flowers
- Weak feet – not suited for perching on flowers
These physical differences mean that each is morphologically adapted to feed from certain flower types.
Overlap in flower preferences
Despite their differences, butterflies and hummingbirds do visit some of the same flowers due to the following overlaps:
- Both are attracted to red and orange flower colors which stand out
- Some tubular flowers have short, wide corollas allowing access for both
- Some flowers have sturdy landing platforms and adequate hovering space
Flowers they may share an affinity for include:
- Lantana
- Columbine
- Honeysuckle
- Penstemon
- Lobelia
- Fuchsia
- Coral bells
- Bee balm
Planting a variety of flower shapes, colors and sizes will help attract both butterflies and hummingbirds to a garden.
Differences in flower preferences by region
The types of flowers butterflies and hummingbirds are attracted to can also vary by geographic region. This is due to differences in the native plants and pollinator species present. Some examples:
| Region | Flowers butterflies prefer | Flowers hummingbirds prefer |
|---|---|---|
| Northeast US | Milkweed, lilacs, asters | Bee balm, cardinal flower |
| Southeast US | Coneflowers, lantana, zinnias | Coral honeysuckle, trumpet vine |
| Southwest US | Globe mallow, sacred datura | Penstemon, fuchsia |
| Northwest US | Wild lilac, blanketflower | Indian paintbrush, columbine |
Researching which flowers are native to your region can help determine the best options for attracting local butterflies and hummingbirds.
Differences in when butterflies and hummingbirds feed
Butterflies and hummingbirds also differ in when they are most actively feeding on flowers:
- Butterflies feed on flowers during the daytime, especially mid-late morning and afternoon.
- Hummingbirds start feeding earlier in the day than butterflies. They have high metabolism and need to eat frequently.
Understanding when each pollinator is most active can help with timing of garden maintenance or observation. For example, delaying pruning or spraying pesticides until later in the day will minimize disturbance to butterflies.
Summary
In summary:
- Butterflies and hummingbirds differ in feeding behavior, morphology and timing that influence their flower preferences.
- They do share an attraction to some of the same flowers such as bee balm, fuchsia and lantana.
- Planting a diversity of flower types, colors and bloom times will help support both butterflies and hummingbirds.
- Understanding regional native plants and pollinator activity patterns allows you to best provide for local species.
Conclusion
Butterflies and hummingbirds are important pollinators with some overlapping but also distinct flower preferences. By planting a range of flowers in your garden, you can create an environment attractive to both groups. Observing when each type of pollinator feeds and which flowers they frequent in your area will help you determine the best selection and maintenance approaches. Supporting these beautiful creatures contributes to a healthy ecosystem!
