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National Hummingbird Day

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The smallest bird holds a big place in the hearts of many bird lovers. Hummingbirds, which are only found in the Western Hemisphere, fascinate us with their high speed acrobatics. Every spring they make their way to North America, sharing our spring and summer before returning to warmer climates. These birds are celebrated on National Hummingbird Day, a time to think about the role these pollinators play in our ecosystem and how we can attract them to our yards before next spring’s arrival.

When is National Hummingbird Day?

National Hummingbird Day is celebrated every year on the first Saturday in September, just as the birds are starting their southern migration for the winter.

How can I celebrate hummingbirds?

The best way to celebrate these birds on National Hummingbird Day is to think of ways you can attract hummingbirds to your own yard next spring.

  • Plant native flowers.
    One of the best ways to attract hummingbirds to your yard is to plant native flowers. Native flowers are those that naturally occur in your area and are adapted to the local climate and soil. Hummingbirds are attracted to brightly colored flowers that are rich in nectar. Some of the best flowers to plant include bee balm, columbine, trumpet creeper and Turk’s Cap, among many others.
  • Hang a hummingbird feeder.
    Another great way to attract hummingbirds is to use a hummingbird feeder filled with a sugar water solution. Take 1 part sugar and 4 parts near boiling water; add the sugar and stir to dissolve the sugar completely. Allow the nectar to cool completely before adding it to your feeder. Be sure to change the nectar often as – especially in warm weather – the mixture can become rancid and dangerous for the birds. Place the feeder in a location that is away from direct sunlight and wind. Hummingbird feeders are designed to mimic the flowers that hummingbirds feed on and provide them with a source of nectar. When choosing a hummingbird feeder, be sure to select one that is easy to clean and refill. Our favorite is this flat saucer type of feeder that doesn’t drip, can be cleaned without needing a bottle brush and keeps the nectar too far away to permit wasps to drink.
We hang our hummingbird feeders beneath the eaves of the porch for shade.
  • Avoid using pesticides.
    When trying to attract hummingbirds, it is important to avoid using pesticides. Pesticides can be harmful to birds and other wildlife, so it is best to avoid using them altogether. Look for natural insecticides that won’t hurt birds and other wildlife if you need to control fleas and other yard insects.
  • Provide shelter.
    In addition to food, hummingbirds also need shelter from the elements. To provide shelter for hummingbirds, you can plant trees or shrubs that will provide them with cover from the sun and rain.
  • Be patient!
    Attracting hummingbirds takes time and patience. Start by planting some native flowers and adding a hummingbird feeder. Once you have established a regular feeding schedule, the hummingbirds will start coming back on their own!
  • Add a water feature to your yard.
    Hummingbirds are also attracted to water features, such as bird baths, fountains, and ponds. Water features provide hummingbirds with a place to drink and bathe, both of which they need for survival. When selecting a water feature for your yard, be sure to choose one that is shallow enough for hummingbirds to safely use.

Interesting Facts About Hummingbirds

  • If a person had the same metabolism as a hummingbird, he would need to consume about 155,000 calories and drink 100 gallons of water every day.
  • If you want to attract hummingbirds to your yard, purchase local plants. Plants from Asia and Africa have not evolved with hummingbirds as their pollinators, so they do not have nectar receptacles.
  • An amazing 160 species of hummingbirds live in the jungles of Ecuador, but the variety diminishes greatly when you travel even 10 degrees from the Equator.
  • The ancient people of Mexico once attributed magical powers to the hummingbird or “sunbeam bird.” According to legend, Montezuma used the iridescent feathers for his robe.

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National Hummingbird Day
Paris Permenter and John Bigley
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