Hummingbirds are amazing little birds that have captured the fascination of people for centuries. Their ability to hover and fly backwards sets them apart from other birds. To keep up their energy for all that fluttering, hummingbirds need a diet that is high in sugars and proteins. This leads many hummingbird lovers to wonder: how can I give hummingbirds the proteins they need?
Do hummingbirds need protein?
Yes, hummingbirds do need protein as part of their diet. While they get most of their energy from flower nectar and tree sap, neither of those substances contains much protein. Protein is essential for muscle development, reproduction, and the maintenance of feathers. Without an adequate protein source, hummingbirds can face issues like stunted growth, difficulty breeding, and problems with molting. This is why it’s important for hummingbird caretakers to provide a protein supplement.
What are good sources of protein for hummingbirds?
There are a couple excellent options for providing supplemental protein to hummingbirds:
- Insect and arthropods – In the wild, hummingbirds get most of their protein from eating small spiders and insects. This includes mosquitoes, gnats, fruit flies, ants, beetles, and aphids. As inconvenient as these tiny bugs are to humans, they are a vital part of a hummingbird’s diet. To replicate this, caretakers can purchase dried insects and reconstitute them in water as a natural protein source.
- Specialty nectar mixes – The most convenient option is to purchase a commercial hummingbird food or nectar mix that has added protein. Some common ingredients used for added protein include whey powder, brewer’s yeast, spirulina powder, and/or egg white powder. It’s important to follow mixing directions carefully and change nectar every 2-3 days to prevent spoilage.
- Mealworms – For a more natural option, many people offer live mealworms to hummingbirds. These can be purchased from pet stores or bait shops and offered fresh or dried. Hummingbirds seem to enjoy hunting and eating live mealworms in a feeder.
In addition to these protein sources, some people also offer high protein foods like peanut butter, beans, legumes, pollen, unflavored yogurt, and soft cheese. However, it’s best to stick with insect protein as the safest option that best replicates their natural diet.
What is the best way to give hummingbirds protein?
There are a couple methods for offering supplemental protein to hummingbirds:
- Add protein powder to nectar – For commercial nectars and sugar water mixes, simply follow package directions. Usually protein powder is added to the nectar mix before filling hummingbird feeders.
- Use protein feeders – You can purchase special feeders made for offering protein snacks. These have larger ports and perches designed for mealworms or dried insects.
- Skewer or stick insects – Live or rehydrated dried mealworms can be skewered onto plant branches or small stakes near hummingbird feeders.
It’s important not to try to mix protein sources directly into the nectar in feeders. Adding items like mealworms, cheese, yogurt, or peanut butter can promote bacterial growth leading to dangerous spoilage.
How much protein do hummingbirds need?
Research indicates that hummingbirds need a diet with around 25-40% protein to stay healthy. This varies some by species. In the wild they would get this by eating thousands of tiny insects each day.
As a supplement provided by caretakers, a few small mealworms or 1-2 teaspoons of protein powder per 2 cups of nectar is generally sufficient. Provide protein supplements alongside nectar feeders so hummingbirds can regulate intake naturally.
Monitor hummingbird behavior and health to determine if more or less protein is needed. Indications they may need more protein include lethargy, trouble molting feathers, lack of breeding activity, or stunted growth in young birds.
Tips for providing protein to hummingbirds
Here are some helpful tips for successfully offering supplemental protein for hummingbirds:
- Start with small amounts and increase slowly – When introducing a new protein source, start with small quantities and gradually offer more over a 7-10 day period. This allows the birds time to adapt.
- Good timing – Offer protein sources in the morning and evening when insect activity is highest in nature.
- Variety – Rotate between 2-3 different protein options for variety.
- Clean feeders – Clean nectar feeders thoroughly before adding nectar mixes with protein powder. Thoroughly clean any insect or mealworm feeders frequently to prevent mold.
- Don’t mix – Never mix or layer protein sources directly into nectar feeders. Offer them separately.
- Monitor intake – Keep an eye on consumption levels to ensure the birds are eating enough protein without surplus going to waste.
- Use proper feeders – Purchase feeders specifically designed for mealworms or dried insects to provide good accessibility for the birds.
- Store extras properly – Keep any excess live mealworms in the refrigerator and dried insects in the freezer to maintain freshness between feedings.
FAQs about providing protein for hummingbirds
Is it okay to give hummingbirds mealworms?
Yes, mealworms are a great protein source for hummingbirds. They provide an excellent nutritional profile similar to the small insects hummingbirds naturally eat. Both live and dried mealworms are safe for hummingbirds as long as the feeders are kept clean.
What household items can substitute as protein for hummingbirds?
It’s best not to use household food items. Things like milk, bread, sugar, peanut butter etc. can pose health risks. Even if they eat them, they do not provide the full nutritional profile hummingbirds need. The safest approach is to use commercial specialty products or simple natural options like insects and nectar powders designed specifically for hummingbirds.
Is it okay to give hummingbirds eggs?
It’s not recommended. Raw eggs can harbor bacteria like salmonella. Powdered egg whites are a safer option for adding small amounts of protein to nectar mixes. Boiled egg can be mashed up but it doesn’t contain the full amino acid profile hummingbirds need for long-term health.
Can hummingbirds eat ants?
Yes, ants provide an excellent source of protein for hummingbirds. In the wild they are a common part of their diet. You can collect live ants or purchase ant eggs or pupae from bait shops to offer in specialized feeders. It provides variety alongside other insect options like mealworms.
Do I need a special feeder for mealworms?
Specialty feeders designed for mealworms or dried insects make it easier for hummingbirds to access the protein source. They have larger ports and perches suited for the task. However, you can also skewer mealworms onto plant branches or sticks with success. Just be sure to position them close to their normal nectar feeding areas.
How often should I change nectar with added protein?
To prevent spoilage, nectar mixes containing protein powders should be changed every 2-3 days. This is more frequent than plain sugar nectar solutions which last 4-7 days. The protein can promote more bacterial growth so more frequent nectar replacement is important.
Can I offer protein foods at night?
Hummingbirds will not eat at night when they are in a torpor state. It’s best to remove all feeders overnight and offer fresh nectar and protein sources in the early morning when they become active again.
How long does it take hummingbirds to adjust to a new protein source?
It typically takes hummingbirds 7-10 days to fully adapt to a new supplemental protein source. Start with small amounts and gradually increase over this time frame. Monitor to ensure they are adjusting well.
What are signs hummingbirds need more protein?
Indications hummingbirds may need more protein include lethargy, irritability, lack of breeding/reproductive behaviors, increased aggression, poor feather development, and slow growth in young birds. Increase protein gradually if any of these issues are observed.
Conclusion
Hummingbirds have unique nutritional needs thanks to their supercharged metabolisms and special way of feeding. Providing them with a supplemental protein source is crucial for supporting their health and natural behaviors. Whether you opt for commercial nectar mixes, mealworms, or dried insects, be sure to offer a protein source properly alongside traditional nectar feeders. With a little trial and error, you’ll give your local hummingbirds the diet they need to prosper in your yard.
