Hummingbirds are attracted to the color red. When you see a hummingbird feeder, it is most often filled with a bright, ruby-red liquid. This is because hummingbirds have a strong preference for the color red when feeding. But why is this? What is it about the color red that draws hummingbirds to a food source?
Hummingbirds Have Excellent Color Vision
Hummingbirds have some of the best color vision in the animal kingdom. They have four types of cone photoreceptors in their eyes compared to only three for most other birds. This allows them to see colors on a broader spectrum, especially in the red range. The presence of a fourth cone allows them to see deeper shades of red that are invisible to other birds.
Researchers have found that hummingbirds can not only detect subtle differences in color hues, but they have a specific inclination towards reddish and orange-colored flowers and feeders. Their excellent color vision allows them to precisely target nectar sources based on color cues. So filling a feeder with bright red “nectar” is a surefire way to catch their attention.
Red Flowers Serve as Cues
In the wild, hummingbirds rely on the colors of flowers to find food. Many of the flowers that hummingbirds feed from are red, orange, or pink. This includes flowers like trumpet vines, fuchsias, and bee balm. Thus red has come to serve as a cue that signifies a nutritious food source to hummingbirds.
By using red feeders, we are tapping into their natural foraging behavior and instincts. The vibrant red color triggers a reaction in their brains, telling them that this is something yummy they should investigate further. Just like bees are instinctively drawn to blue and yellow flowers, hummingbirds can’t resist bright red feeders that mimic their natural food sources.
Red Stands Out
Another reason red attracts hummingbirds is because it stands out against a green, leafy background. In the forest and grasslands where hummingbirds live, red flowers pop against all the green vegetation. This makes them easy to spot from a distance.
Using a red feeder instead of say a green, brown, or clear one gives the same effect. The ruby-red liquid is highly visible as it catches the sunlight. A red feeder is like a beacon, signaling “here is the food!” to any passing hummingbirds.
Sugar Concentration
While red is the most effective color for attracting hummingbirds, the sugar concentration, or nectar ratio, of the liquid inside the feeder matters too. Hummingbirds need lots of quick energy in the form of sugar to power their wings during hovering and flight.
Here is a table showing the ideal sugar concentration hummingbirds need:
| Sugar | Water | Ratio |
|---|---|---|
| 1 cup | 4 cups | 20% |
This ratio closely matches natural flower nectar. While ornithologists once recommended higher concentrations like 1:3 or even 1:2, it is now understood that more diluted 20% solutions are safest for hummingbirds.
Higher percentages can overload their tiny kidneys with excess sugars. Weaker mixtures won’t provide enough energetic value. So aim for the 1:4 ratio of sugar dissolved in water – it’s just right!
You can purchase premade “nectar” that already has the ideal 20% concentration. Alternatively, you can mix regular white granulated cane sugar with water yourself to achieve the same effect.
Other Sugar Options
While plain white cane sugar is best, you can also use raw cane sugar or organic evaporated cane juice. Just avoid artificial sweeteners, honey, molasses, or brown sugar.
Do not add red food coloring. The sugar provides all the color and energy hummingbirds require.
Feeder Style
Feeder style and design plays a supporting role in attracting hummingbirds too. Here are some helpful tips for picking the right feeder:
Choose Red
As mentioned earlier, a red feeder is ideal to draw in these visual creatures. Get a feeder colored bright or deep red all over. Avoid other colors or transparent feeders.
Select the Shape
Hummingbirds are most comfortable feeding from flowers with a trumpet shape. Select a feeder shaped similarly, with red “flower petals” forming the reservoirs that hold the nectar. Stay away from shallow bowl-styles.
Pick the Right Size
Smaller feeders with a 4-12 oz capacity are best for attracting hummers. Giant feeders tend to intimidate them. But also avoid tiny models that need refilling constantly.
Choose a Simple Style
Skip fancy feeders with moving parts, prisms, or moats. Hummingbirds prefer straightforward feeders that let them access the nectar easily.
Get One That’s Easy to Clean
Since the sugar nectar can ferment, pick a feeder that comes apart for cleaning. Look for dishwasher safe options.
Select a Leakproof Feeder
Leakproof seals will keep the liquid from dripping and attracting pests like ants and bees.
Include Perches
Add one or more perches so hummingbirds can comfortably rest while feeding.
Where to Place the Feeder
Proper feeder placement helps ensure hummingbirds take advantage of this free food source:
Hang It High Enough
Install feeders at least 5 feet off the ground and safely out of reach of predators. Hummers like swooping down to feed mid-flight.
Choose a Visible Spot
Pick a spot where the feeder can catch the sun and where birds will see it against the backdrop of your yard. Near flowers or trees is ideal.
Avoid Too Much Wind or Heat
Position feeders out of the wind which can blow the liquid out. Don’t hang them in direct sun which can cause the nectar to spoil.
Watch for Obstructions
Make sure nearby branches or laundry lines don’t impede a hummingbird’s approach to the feeder.
Place Multiple Feeders
Consider placing 2-3 feeders around your yard to minimize bullying at busy times.
When to Put Out Hummingbird Feeders
Hummingbird migration patterns determine when you should first fill your feeder each year:
In Northern States and Canada
Set out feeders in early May when hummingbirds first return after wintering farther south. Take feeders down in late September before fall migration.
In Southern States
Put feeders up as early as late February or March as hummingbirds pass through in early spring. Leave feeders up through October before birds migrate south.
In Tropical Zones
In tropical zones where hummingbirds live year-round, feeders can be left up continuously.
During Migration
Keep feeders filled through late spring, summer, and early fall to provide fuel stops for migrating hummingbirds passing through.
Maintaining Hummingbird Feeders
To keep hummingbirds visiting your feeders, you’ll need to properly maintain them:
Clean Regularly
Every 2-3 days, take feeders apart to wash with hot water only. No soap which can leave residue.
Change the Nectar Frequently
Replace the sugary nectar inside about every 3-5 days, or daily in hot weather when it spoils faster.
Rinse Feeders Well
Always rinse with several hot water washes to remove nectar residue that breeds bacteria.
Dry Thoroughly
Let all feeder parts air dry completely before refilling to prevent mold.
Don’t Let It Freeze
Take feeders inside if temps drop below freezing or the nectar can freeze and crack the feeder.
Conclusion
In summary, hummingbirds are attracted to red because of their exceptional color vision, red’s association with nectar-bearing flowers, and its ability to stand out. Using bright red feeders filled with the proper 20% sugar water concentration taps into their natural feeding preferences.
Place your red hummingbird feeder in a visible spot high enough to be safe from predators. Follow cleaning and maintenance tips to keep nectar fresh and appealing. Time feeder placement with migration patterns. Do this and you are sure to have these energetic birds visiting your yard soon!
