Hummingbirds are fascinating creatures that capture the imagination with their diminutive size, incredible speed, and ability to hover in mid-air. These tiny birds have extremely high metabolisms and must consume up to their own body weight in nectar each day to sustain their energy levels. This means they are constantly on the search for sources of food. One question that often comes up is whether hummingbirds are attracted to water misters and find them a useful source of hydration.
What attracts hummingbirds to yards and gardens?
There are a few key things that will attract hummingbirds to a yard or garden:
- Brightly colored tubular flowers – Hummingbirds are specially adapted to feed on the nectar of flowers with a tubular shape. They are particularly attracted to red, orange, and pink blossoms.
- Nectar feeders – These artificial nectar sources provide essential energy. The sugar-water mixture should be 1 part sugar to 4 parts water.
- Running water – Hummingbirds are drawn to the sight and sound of moving water. They will bathe in water features and drink fresh water.
- Shelter – Hummingbirds appreciate trees, shrubs, and other shelter to rest in between feeding sessions.
By landscaping with hummingbird favorites and providing feeders, you can create an enticing environment for these swift little visitors.
How hummingbirds keep themselves hydrated
Hummingbirds meet most of their hydration needs from the nectar they drink throughout the day. However, they do also drink plain water from time to time. Here are some of the ways hummingbirds get the water they need:
- Nectar – The sugary nectar from flowers and feeders provides hummingbirds with hydration as they feed.
- Water features – Hummingbirds will drink, bathe, and preen in water from bird baths, fountains, misters, drippers, and even irrigation lines.
- Fruits – Certain fruits like oranges, bananas and grapes also provide some hydration.
- Insects – Hummingbirds get small amounts of hydration from eating insects.
- Raindrops – Hummingbirds will catch raindrops on the wing to drink mid-flight.
Having a clean water source available in a yard is a good way to help meet hummingbirds’ hydration needs between feeding sessions.
The potential benefits of water misters for hummingbirds
Water misters create a fine spray of water droplets that can serve several purposes for hummingbirds:
- Drinking – The mist provides tiny droplets for hummingbirds to easily lick up as they fly through the spray.
- Bathing – The gentle mist allows hummingbirds to bathe on the wing and keep their feathers in good condition.
- Cooling – The water evaporation can help hummingbirds prevent overheating on hot days.
- Attractant – The sight and sound of the mister may catch their attention and draw them in.
The fact that misters allow access to water while still flying makes them an excellent water source for hummingbirds who are always on the move. The fine spray is perfect for their tiny size.
Potential downsides of misters for hummingbirds
While misters provide benefits, there are also some potential downsides to consider:
- Can soak feathers if spray is too heavy.
- Dripping can encourage mold, bacteria and mosquitoes.
- Requires maintenance to keep clean.
- Can freeze in cold weather.
- May leak and waste water.
To maximize the advantages of a mister for hummingbirds, it’s important to choose a quality system with adjustability and use it properly. Poorly functioning misters may do more harm than good.
Mister setup tips
Follow these tips to setup a water mister that will safely attract hummingbirds:
- Choose an adjustable nozzle to control water volume.
- Select a leak-free, dripless design.
- Position in a partially shaded area to prevent overheating.
- Aim spray in an open area without foliage.
- Provide an alternative clean water source like a dripper.
- Clean and disinfect the system regularly.
- Adjust or shutoff during freezing weather.
With a thoughtful setup, misters can be an excellent addition for allowing hummingbirds to drink and bathe on the wing.
Other water sources to consider
In addition to misters, some other good water sources to provide for hummingbirds include:
- Dripping fountains – The slow drip of water attracts hummingbirds to drink and bathe without soaking their feathers.
- Bird baths – These shallow, wide bowls allow access for drinking and bathing.
- Rain chains – Long chains allow droplets to run off for hummingbirds to catch.
- Fountains – Moving water attracts hummingbirds but splashing can soak them.
- Bottle brushes – An upside-down bottle with holes punched in the bottom leaks a gentle drip.
Try experimenting with different water features to see which your local hummingbirds seem to prefer.
The bottom line
So do hummingbirds like water misters? The answer seems to be yes, with some qualifications. When positioned and operated properly, misters can provide an inviting opportunity for hummingbirds to drink and bathe on the wing. The fine spray meets their needs for quick hydration without drenching their delicate feathers. However, care should be taken to minimize potential downsides and not rely solely on misters for their water needs. Providing a variety of clean water sources will best attract these energetic little birds and support their health.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I leave a mister on all day for hummingbirds?
It’s best not to leave a mister running continuously all day long. Hummingbirds only need brief drinking and bathing opportunities throughout the day. Leaving the mister on constantly could lead to excess mosquitoes or other issues. Turning the mister on for a few short periods per day, such as early morning and late afternoon, will allow hummingbirds to use it without wasting water.
Where should I mount my hummingbird mister?
Look for a shady spot near natural cover like trees or shrubs where hummingbirds often perch. Mount the mister about 5-6 feet above ground pointed away from any foliage. Hummingbirds feel safest drinking and bathing where they have quick access to shelter from predators.
How do I keep my hummingbird mister clean?
It’s important to clean a hummingbird mister every few days to prevent harmful mold or bacteria. Mix a solution of 1 part white vinegar to 3 parts water and run it through the mister system for a few minutes. Then rinse thoroughly with fresh water. Periodically take apart the nozzles to remove any mineral buildup blocking the flow.
Should hummingbird misters run during winter?
It’s best to shut off and disconnect misters during freezing weather to prevent ice damage. Provide an alternate water source like a heated bird bath for overwintering hummingbirds. Misters can be reinstalled in early spring once the threat of freezing has passed.
Are there any safety concerns with hummingbird misters?
As with any electrical device around water, proper installation is important for safety. Only use a GFCI circuit, follow all instructions, and position away from power lines. Avoid spraying near windows to prevent water leaks. Also take steps to prevent mosquitoes, mold and algae when using misters.
Comparisons of different hummingbird mister products
There are many hummingbird mister products available. Here is a comparison of some top options:
Brand | Type | Attach Method | Runtime | Adjustable? |
---|---|---|---|---|
Super Bird | Mister | Hose | Continuous | Yes |
Gardener’s Supply | Mister | Pole | Intermittent | No |
Aspectek | Mister | Hanging | Adjustable | Yes |
Sienna | Dripper | Hanging | Continuous | Yes |
Perky Pet | Mister | Ground | Intermittent | No |
When choosing a product, consider adjustability, mounting options, and runtime settings. An adjustable mister provides the most flexibility.
Conclusions
Hummingbirds are remarkable creatures, and attracting them to your yard or garden can be very rewarding. Providing a clean water source like a mister creates an inviting environment for them while meeting their hydration needs. With some smart setup strategies and routine maintenance, misters can be an excellent addition to a backyard habitat for hummingbirds. The gentle spray allows hummingbirds to sip and bathe without getting soaked. Be sure to consider their other water and habitat needs as well for maximum enjoyment of these energetic pollinators.