Hummingbirds are some of the most fascinating birds. With their ability to hover and fly backwards, their beauty and speed, it’s no wonder they capture our interest. Hummingbirds have some unique traits that influence what attracts them. By understanding what appeals to hummingbirds, we can better attract them to our yards and gardens.
What Colors Attract Hummingbirds?
Hummingbirds are particularly drawn to the color red. This attraction is due to the birds’ preference for flower nectar as an energy source. Many tubular flowers frequented by hummingbirds are red in color. Some examples are trumpet vines, cardinal flowers, and bee balms.
In addition to red, hummingbirds are also attracted to other warm colors like orange, pink, and purple. Bright yellow flowers will also catch their attention. Blue is less appealing to hummingbirds unless accompanied by red or another warm tone.
Why are Hummingbirds Attracted to Red?
There are two main theories as to why red attracts hummingbirds so strongly:
- Red flowers typically produce more nectar. The higher sugar content of red flowers provides efficient energy.
- Red stands out against green foliage. The contrast makes the flowers easier to spot.
Experiments have shown that artificially colored red flowers were visited more frequently by hummingbirds even when the nectar content was the same as other colors. This supports the theory that the birds have an innate preference for red separate from sugar reward.
What Else Attracts Hummingbirds Besides Color?
While red blooms are highly attractive to hummingbirds, they also respond to other cues.
Nectar
Flowers producing sugary nectar are magnets for hummingbirds. Hummingbirds get most of their energy from drinking nectar. They are attracted to flowers with an ample nectar supply.
Flower Shape
Flowers with tubular or funnel-like shapes also strongly appeal to hummingbirds. The elongated flower shapes are perfectly adapted for the birds’ long, slender beaks and tongues to access the nectar.
Scent
Flowers emit aromas that are not detectable by humans but act as olfactory cues leading hummingbirds to food sources. Even vision-blocking obstacles are not a barrier as the birds follow the scent to the flowers.
Water
A clean, fresh water source provides drinking and bathing opportunities attractive to hummingbirds. Misters, drippers, and fountains draw hummingbirds in to splash. Adding a water feature near plants brings double appeal.
Shelter and Habitat
Hummingbirds seek places that offer protection from predators and harsh weather as well as adequate food. Dense trees, shrubs, and vines simulate ideal natural shelter. Backyard plantings that mimic native habitats provide attractive spaces.
High Vantage Points
Raised perches allow hummingbirds to rest and observe their surroundings for food and threats. Trees, posts, wires, and bird feeders positioned high create appealing perching locations.
When are Hummingbirds Most Attracted to Feeders?
Hummingbird feeders attract the birds by mimicking the flowers they evolved to pollinate. Feeders are most effective when natural food sources are scarce. Here are some key times hummingbirds rely on feeders:
- Early spring – Arriving migrants depend on feeders until flowers bloom.
- Late summer – Hot, dry weather causes flowers to fade.
- Fall migration – Energy demands are high for migration. Flowers wane.
- Winter – Resident and wintering birds require reliable food.
During peak seasons, maintaining several clean, well-filled feeders draws and keeps hummingbirds visiting.
What is the Best Nectar for Hummingbird Feeders?
White granulated sugar dissolved in water at a 4:1 ratio most closely matches natural flower nectar. Avoid honey, artificial sweeteners, food coloring, and brown sugar in feeders as these can be harmful.
Additionally, here are some tips for the best artificial nectar:
- Use clean or boiled water.
- Avoid ratios weaker than 1:4 as these dilute nutrition.
- Change nectar every 2-3 days in hot weather to prevent spoiling.
- Store unused nectar in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
- Avoid adding red food dye, but do use red feeders.
Where Should Hummingbird Feeders be Placed?
Proper feeder placement helps ensure hummingbirds can access the nectar easily and feel safe from predators. Follow these tips:
- Hang feeders on porches, trees, poles, or shepherd’s hooks 5-10 feet off the ground.
- Ensure a clear flight path so hummingbirds can avoid collisions.
- Place feeders near flowers, bushes, trees, or other cover for quick escapes.
- Separate multiple feeders by at least 10 feet to reduce territorial fights.
- Hang feeders in shady spots to slow nectar spoilage.
Do Hummingbirds Prefer Certain Feeder Styles?
There are several common feeder types to choose from when attracting hummingbirds. The key features that appeal to hummingbirds are:
- Bright red color
- Reservoirs with adequate nectar capacity
- Wide, easy-access feeding ports
- Perches for resting
- Drip-free, ant-proof design
- Easy cleaning and filling
With these criteria in mind, here are good feeder styles for hummingbirds:
Saucer Feeders
Shallow reservoirs with multiple feeding ports. Allow easy access for several birds. Draining the saucer prevents ant problems.
Tube/Bottle Feeders
Enclosed glass or plastic tube with feeding ports. Holds more nectar than saucers. Can be suspended or mounted.
Funnel/Tank Feeders
Top inverted funnel connected to a tank base. Ports mimic flower shapes. Good capacity and minimal leaking.
Dish/Basin Feeders
Open reservoirs with wide feeding areas. Generally have a moat to minimize ant access. Require more frequent filling.
How Many Hummingbird Feeders are Needed?
The number of hummingbird feeders required depends on:
- How many hummingbirds frequent the area
- How much activity the feeders receive
- How often the feeder is refilled
- Feeder nectar capacity
For most homeowners aiming to attract hummingbirds, here are general guidelines on number of feeders:
| Number of Feeders | Hummingbird Volume |
|---|---|
| 1-2 feeders | Low to moderate traffic |
| 3-4 feeders | Moderate to high traffic |
| 5+ feeders | Very high traffic |
Base the feeder quantity on your observation of how many hummingbirds routinely visit and how rapidly they empty the nectar. Increase the feeders if you notice long waits at empty feeders or aggressive fights.
Do Hummingbirds Have Food Preferences by Species?
Most North American hummingbird species are attracted to the same food sources. However, certain preferences may exist among certain species or groups:
Ruby-Throated Hummingbird
The most widespread eastern species. They prefer slightly higher sugar concentrations in nectar than western species.
Rufous Hummingbird
One of the most common western species. They thrive on flowers from the lily family such as fuchsias and columbines.
Anna’s Hummingbird
One of the most common overwintering western species. They feed heavily on tree sap for extra energy in cold months.
Costa’s Hummingbird
Desert dwellers that prefer flowers specialized to arid climates like ocotillo and chuparosa.
Calliope Hummingbird
The smallest species, they favor very short corolla tubular flowers well suited to their tiny size.
How Many Times a Day do Hummingbirds Feed?
Due to their very high metabolisms and energy needs, hummingbirds feed frequently throughout the day. They may visit flowers and feeders dozens of times daily. Here are more details on their feeding habits:
- They eat half their weight in nectar daily. For a 3-4 gram hummer, that’s 1.5-2 grams of nectar.
- They consume up to double their weight in insects annually. This provides protein needed for reproduction.
- During cold weather when flowers fade, they increase feeder visits to hourly.
- On hot days, hummers actively feed every 10-15 minutes to refuel and cool off.
- Peak feeding times are early morning and late afternoon.
Given their tiny stomachs and rapid metabolisms, hummingbirds literally cannot survive without feeding frequently from dawn to dusk.
What Plants do Hummingbirds Like in Gardens?
When planning a garden to attract hummingbirds, incorporate a variety of their favorite nectar plants. Here are top perennial, annual, and flowering shrub picks:
Perennials
- Bee balm
- Butterfly weed
- Cardinal flower
- Columbine
- Foxglove
- Lupine
- Penstemon
Annuals
- Fuchsia
- Impatiens
- Marigold
- Morning glory
- Nasturtium
- Petunia
- Scarlet sage
Shrubs
- Abelia
- Butterfly bush
- Lilac
- Potentilla
- Red trumpet honeysuckle
- Weigela
Conclusion
Understanding what attracts hummingbirds is key to successfully luring these special birds close. A habitat with ample tubular blooms in colors like red, orange, and pink, a clean water source, protected perching spots, and properly maintained feeders will create an enticing environment. By catering to hummingbird preferences, we can enjoy their dazzling beauty, speed, and athleticism as they buzz around flowers and feeders.
