Hummingbirds are beautiful, tiny birds that can provide color and excitement to any garden or backyard. One of the best ways to attract hummingbirds is by installing a water feature, as these busy birds are highly attracted to sources of fresh water for drinking and bathing. When choosing a water feature to invite hummingbirds in, there are certain considerations to keep in mind. The key is providing moving water, protection from predators, and using red coloring in or near the water feature. Here are some of the top water features to attract hummingbirds and tips for using them effectively.
Dripping or Spraying Water Fountains
Dripping or spraying water fountains provide an enticing source of moving water that will catch the attention of hummingbirds. The sight and sound of dripping, splashing, or spraying water is irresistible to these energetic birds. There are many fountain styles, but some of the best options include:
- Dripping rock fountains – These simple, inexpensive fountains consist of water dripping down the surface of natural or manufactured rocks. The movement and sound of the dripping water is highly effective at attracting hummingbirds.
- Outdoor hanging dripping fountains – Hanging dripping water fountains can be hung from trees, patios, or any other outdoor structures. Go for compact, lightweight options that can be easily hung in optimal hummingbird spots.
- Misting fountains – Misting fountains shoot out fine misting spray that attracts hummingbirds. Go for adjustable ones so you can change the water flow to entice hummingbirds.
- Free-falling water fountains – Waterfall style fountains or wall fountains with free-falling streams of water will provide an inviting water source.
For any dripping or spraying fountain, aim for designs that provide a consistent water flow without over-spraying. Fountains that create a light drizzle effect work best to attract hummingbirds. Placing fountains near flowering plants or feeders helps increase their appeal.
Birdbath Fountains
Birdbath fountains take a classic birdbath design and add circulating water movement, which attracts hummingbirds like a magnet. Options include:
- Small tabletop birdbath fountains – Tabletop-sized fountains with built-in water circulation are an ideal feature, as hummingbirds feel protected dining at ground level away from predators.
- Tiered fountain birdbaths – Tiered and multi-level birdbath fountains provide various depths for wading and splashing in the water.
- Solar birdbath fountains – Solar-powered pumps provide water circulation without the need for electricity.
With any birdbath fountain, focus on keeping the water fresh, clean, and at a safe depth for hummingbirds. Adding a few stones or marbles to the basin provides a secure perching spot for hummingbirds to splash. Position birdbath fountains near trees or shrubs to give hummingbirds a sense of protection.
Hummingbird Feeder with Water Feature
Another way to combine hummingbird appeal is by getting a feeder with an attached water fountain. This provides nourishment from the nectar and fresh water for drinking and bathing all in one. Some top options include:
- Feeder with top or bottom fountain – Many companies make feeders that have either a small fountain appended to the top or a birdbath-style fountain at the base.
- Orioles feeder with fountain – These combine an oriole nectar feeder with a fountain base that attracts both orioles and hummingbirds.
- Two-in-one feeder and fountain – These combo units have a main fountain water source and smaller hummingbird feeder appended to the side.
The two-in-one action allows you to conveniently feed and water hummingbirds from the same unit. Position units out of direct sun and clean the fountains regularly to prevent stagnant water.
Rainfall Fountains
Rainfall-style fountains feature water gently streaming down chains, tubes, or ropes to mimic a soft rainfall. The natural effect and moving water entices hummingbirds to fly through the streams and drink the fresh droplets. Rainfall fountains provide an open, above-ground water source that hummingbirds prefer over enclosed ground fountains. Some top options include:
- Rain chain fountains – Rain chains are a series of cups, tubes, or disks strung together that water flows down slowly like a rainfall.
- Rain curtain fountains – These consist of sheets or curtains of hanging chains, tubes, or ropes for water to drip down like rain.
- Rain tube fountains – Rain tubes are long, hollow tubes that water flows down and spills out the bottom.
Position rainfall fountains above or near feeders or flowering plants where hummingbirds congregate. The natural rainfall effect is soothing for people as well and can be used almost anywhere in a garden.
Misters or Misting Systems
Hummingbirds will happily flock to the micro-fine mist of water created by misters and misting systems. The gentle mist provides them the opportunity to bathe and splash while drinking if they wish. Some excellent misting options include:
- Patio misters – Get a mister designed for outdoor patios that can be positioned near your feeders.
- Misting systems – Add misting nozzles throughout your backyard system for whole area appeal.
- Micro-misters – Small misting fountains use micro-mist nozzles that avoid wetting the ground.
- Plant misting systems – Direct misting systems toward flowering plants to attract hummingbirds feeding.
Adjust misters to a light, pleasant mist rather than heavy fog. Avoid directing strong mist that can knock hummingbirds off course. Misters work great in dry climates to provide supplemental humidity. Time misting cycles for early mornings and afternoons when hummingbird activity is highest.
Small Ponds or Birdbath Pools
For large spaces, small backyard ponds or pools make an excellent water feature to attract entire flocks of hummingbirds. Ideal options include:
- Tabletop ponds – Self-contained tabletop ponds with a recirculating fountain provide an ideal micro-habitat that hummingbirds love.
- Container water gardens – Sunken pots, cattle troughs, or other containers can become beautiful pumped birdbath pools.
- Backyard pond – For big spaces, a permanent in-ground backyard pond will become a prized hummingbird paradise.
The key is keeping water fresh and free of stagnation with pumps and filters. Include cascades and fountains for oxygenation and water movement. Plant water gardens with flowers and plants that attract hummingbirds. Position feeders and flowering plants around pond edges to provide fuel for hummingbirds visiting the pond.
Tips for Attracting Hummingbirds
To maximize the appeal of water features for hummingbirds, incorporate these tips:
- Add red – Add red elements like ceramic paint, red flowers, ribbons or other decor around fountains. Red attracts hummingbirds.
- Provide shade – Have water features in shaded spots so water stays cool and fresh.
- Use moving water – Dripping, misting, circulating water movement is key to attract hummingbirds.
- Keep it clean – Change water frequently and scrub mineral buildup to prevent stagnation.
- Use a fountain pump – Even in small fountains, a small pump keeps water circulating.
- Avoid overspray – Avoid heavy misting that can deter hummingbirds from approaching.
- Hang high for safety – Hanging or elevated fountains and feeders are safest from predators.
By incorporating some of these excellent water features and tips into your backyard, you’ll quickly have happy hummingbirds flocking in for a drink, splash, or bath. The sight and sound of fresh water provides an attractive sanctuary that keeps hummingbirds returning frequently.
Best Plants to Attract Hummingbirds
In addition to water features, providing nectar-rich flowering plants is one of the best ways to attract hummingbirds to your yard. Here are some top varieties to incorporate:
Flowers | Colors | Bloom Time |
---|---|---|
Petunias | Pink, purple, red | Spring – Fall |
Bee balm | Red | Summer |
Fuchsias | Pink, purple, red | Spring – Fall |
Honeysuckles | Orange, red | Spring – Summer |
Impatiens | Orange, pink, red | Spring – Fall |
Marigolds | Yellow, orange | Spring – Fall |
Nasturtiums | Orange, red, yellow | Spring – Fall |
Sage | Purple, red | Summer – Fall |
Snapdragon | Pink, red, white, yellow | Spring – Fall |
Trumpet flower | Orange, red, yellow | Summer – Fall |
Zinnias | Orange, red, yellow, pink | Summer – Fall |
Prioritize flowers with tubular blooms in colors like red, purple, orange and yellow. Plant flowers in hanging baskets, flower beds, pots, or containers around water sources and feeders. Also incorporate flowering vines, shrubs, and trees that attract hummingbirds like lantana, butterfly bush, lilies and gladiolus.
Best Nectar Plants for Hummingbirds
Along with flowering ornamentals, incorporating nectar-producing plants and shrubs will provide an excellent natural food source for hummingbirds through the seasons. Some top options include:
Plant | Type | Nectar |
---|---|---|
Coral honeysuckle | Vine | Rich, abundant |
Trumpet creeper | Vine | Rich, abundant |
Catnip | Herb | Rich, abundant |
Bee balm | Perennial | Rich, abundant |
Sages | Perennial | Low-moderate |
Penstemons | Perennial | Low-moderate |
Fuchsia | Shrub | Low-moderate |
Mint | Herb | Low-moderate |
Columbine | Perennial | Moderate |
Lavender | Herb | Low |
Grow nectar plants like honeysuckle vines, catnip, and bee balm near water sources and feeders. Let mint, sage, lavender and other herbs flower so hummingbirds can enjoy the nectar.having a spectrum of flowering times provides nourishment for hummingbirds throughout spring, summer and fall.
Conclusion
Installing an enticing water feature tailored for hummingbirds is one of the best ways to grab their attention and bring them directly to your yard or garden. Dripping fountains, birdbath pools, waterfall fountains, misters and small ponds provide the moving fresh water that hummingbirds crave. Combine water sources with bright flowers, nectar plants and feeders to create an ideal micro-habitat to welcome a consistent stream of visiting hummingbirds. The melodic sound and shimmering sight of hummingbirds gathering around a customized water sanctuary will quickly become a treasured part of your landscape.