Hummingbirds are among the smallest birds found in nature, with most species measuring just 3-5 inches in length. Despite their petite size, hummingbirds have voracious appetites and must consume up to half their body weight in nectar each day in order to survive. This need to constantly feed makes providing nourishment a key factor in attracting hummingbirds to any backyard habitat. Bird fountains allow gardeners to supplement natural food sources with fresh nectar, offering these energetic birds the fuel they require. But do hummingbirds actually like bird fountains?
What attracts hummingbirds to bird fountains?
Hummingbirds are drawn to the promise of readily available food that bird fountains represent. The sight and sound of fresh flowing water entices them to investigate, where they discover artificial nectar tailored to their preferences. Several key features make bird fountains highly appealing:
– Nectar – Hummingbirds feed on the nectar of flowers through their long, specialized beaks and tongues. Bird fountains mimic flowers by offering sucrose-based commercial nectars or DIY homemade formulas.
– Color – Vibrant colors attract hummingbirds, so fountains use bright reds, oranges and yellows. Flower-shaped fountain bases with petal-like tiers help mimic blossoms.
– Water movement – The sight and sound of moving water grabs attention. Fountains with dripping, flowing designs are ideal.
– Raised placement – Positioning fountains high up removes threats from predators. Elevated perches let hummingbirds comfortably feed.
Do certain fountain styles work better?
There are many different bird fountain styles, but top choices for hummingbirds have several similarities:
– Multi-tiered fountains with multiple feeding ports allow several birds to drink at once.
– Fountains with drip trays prevent flying ant invasions.
– Glass or plastic feeders are easier to clean than porous materials.
– Fountains with ant moats or bee guards keep away pests.
– Fountains designed to hang or mount vertically suit hummingbirds best.
What is the best hummingbird food recipe?
While store-bought commercial nectars are convenient, making your own homemade nectar tailor-made for hummingbirds is easy and economical. Follow this simple recipe:
Homemade Hummingbird Nectar
– 1 part white sugar
– 4 parts water
Boil the sugar and water together until sugar fully dissolves. Let cool and fill feeders. Store unused portions in the refrigerator for 1-2 weeks. Avoid adding food coloring or honey, as these provide no benefit and may harm the birds.
Key tips:
– Use refined white cane sugar only. Other sugars can ferment.
– Never use artificial sweeteners. They provide no nutritional value.
– Boiling creates a shelf-stable solution. Don’t skip this step!
Red dye myth
Adding red food coloring to homemade nectar is unnecessary, despite old assumptions that birds are attracted to red feeders. Extensive research shows hummingbirds use sight and smell, not color, to locate flower nectar. Skip the dye and let the sugar do the work!
Where should I place a hummingbird fountain?
Proper placement plays a key role in making your yard welcoming. Follow these tips:
– Choose a sheltered location away from wind and rain. Hummingbirds avoid gusty areas.
– Place near natural cover such as trees or shrubs to provide refuge and perches.
– Position 10-20 feet away from feeders for other birds. Less competition means more use.
– Elevate feeders using hooks, poles or stands at least 5 feet high. This adds safety.
– Don’t place directly against windows. Reflections scare hummingbirds away.
Do hummingbirds prefer sun or shade?
Hummingbirds will visit feeders in both sunny and shaded areas as long as placement follows the guidelines above. Some prefer dappled light under trees, while others don’t mind direct sun. Offering multiple feeders in both areas creates more feeding opportunities. Maintaining fresh nectar is more important than sun exposure alone.
How many hummingbirds will come to a fountain?
The number of hummingbirds drawn to a fountain varies based on these factors:
| Factor | Impact on Attendance |
|---|---|
| Food competition | Less food competition brings more birds |
| Nectar freshness | Fresher nectar increases visitors |
| Water movement | Moving water helps attract birds |
| Garden plantings | More flowers attracts more birds |
| Nearby feeders | Multiple feeders increases total visitors |
As a general guideline, a single fountain in an average garden may attract 3-5 regular hummingbird visitors. This number can grow with more fountains, flowers and overall appeal.
Tips to attract more hummingbirds
Make your yard even more attractive by trying these tips:
– Add more bird fountains in different locations
– Plant hummingbird favorites like sages, fuschias and trumpet vines
– Install feeders for seed-eating birds to provide separate areas
– Include both sun and shade areas for feeding
– Eliminate pesticide use which reduces food supplies
– Provide perches for resting near feeders
– Keep feeders clean, nectar fresh, and water flowing
Troubleshooting: Why are hummingbirds not coming to my fountain?
If you’ve set up a fountain but notice hummingbirds rarely visiting, several issues could be to blame:
Problem: Bad location
Solution: Move to a more sheltered spot with natural perches nearby
Problem: Feeder too close to other birds
Solution: Relocate farther away from seed feeders to reduce competition
Problem: Nectar diluted or old
Solution: Change nectar every 2-3 days and only use 1 part sugar to 4 parts water
Problem: Not enough food sources
Solution: Add more feeders around yard and plant nectar-producing flowers
Problem: Nearby pesticide use
Solution: Eliminate chemical use which reduces insect populations hummingbirds rely on
When to call a professional
If troubleshooting fails to bring in more visitors, consult an expert. Audubon Society chapters, birding groups and nature centers can provide advice or conduct site visits to identify issues. A professional can assess your habitat and point out improvements to help attract hummingbirds.
Conclusion
With their glimmering, jewel-toned feathers and magical hovering flight, hummingbirds bring joy to any garden they visit. Encouraging these tiny dynamos to take up residence through offerings of fresh homemade nectar from bird fountains creates an opportunity to observe their beauty up close. Following best practices for fountain and garden design will welcome a steady stream of energetic hummingbirds to your outdoor space. The fluttering buzz of their wings and flashy dives from feeder to fountain will reward the effort spent making your yard enticing. Soon, the sight of energetic hummingbirds flocking to your fountain for nourishment will become a treasured part of everyday life.
