Hummingbirds are the smallest birds measuring 7.5-13 cm (3-5") range and while in flight they have the highest metabolism of all animals (insects excluded).
Hummingbirds feed by sight while traplining (following regular routes). If you live in a neighborhood where you know your neighbors you may hear about their latest hummingbird sightings inspiring you to put out a feeder or hang some plants if you have't already.
A hummingbird habitat consists of flowers, shrubs and trees that produce nectar. Nectar is a liquid rich in sucrose that attracts various pollinators. It's also a way to capture the hummingbird on video or film like we did, shown above.
To make your own nectar
1 cup tap water
¼ cup Granulated Pure Cane Sugar
Bring to a boil and stir in Granulated Pure Cane Sugar. Allow mixture to cool to room temperature before adding it to your feeder. Your hummingbird feeders will need to be cleaned, and nectar changed every day or couple of days in hot weather.
To Create A Hummingbird Garden
Creating a hummingbird garden is an easy way to attract pollinators. I've collected a list of plants we've seen hummingbirds feeding on here in Ohio and provided it below.
Annuals
Fuchsia
Impatiens
Jewelweed
Petunia
Salvias
Perennials
Bee Balm
Cardinal Flower
Columbine
Coral Bells
Four O'Clocks
Foxglove
Hosta
Lupine
Penstemon
Trees and Shrubs
Azalea
Butterfly Bush
Lantana
Weigela
Vines
Honeysuckle
Morning Glory
Trumpet Creeper
All material © 2014-2015 Lori Shriver. Unauthorized reproduction prohibited.
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