Hummingbirds

Many individuals are fascinated by hummingbirds. So much so, that they will do anything in their power to attract these petite creatures to their yards. So what is the best way to attract these wee feathered friends?

Here are some tips to help make your home a hummingbird hot spot:

What Do Hummingbirds Eat?

Hummingbirds usually feed off flower nectar and sugar water that is left out for them in birdfeeders. They also feed off of small insects like ants, slugs and spiders. If you really want to attract hummingbirds to your yard, make sure your bird feeder is always filled with nectar and sugar water.

What Should My Hummingbird Feeder or House Look Like?

It is a well-known fact that hummingbirds are attracted to the color red. That being said, if the feeder you already have isn't red get out your paint brush or stick a large red bow on it to get their attention. The best hummingbird feeders have perches for the birds to stand on while they feed. The holes in hummingbird feeders are just big enough for the little guys to fit their heads in, but they're too small for squirrels and other larger animals so they can't steal the food.

Refrain from painting your hummingbird feeder or house yellow because bees and wasps are attracted to these colors and also enjoy the taste of sweet nectar. You'll want to keep insects as far away from your hummingbird feeders and houses as possible.

What Materials Should Hummingbird Houses or Feeders be made of?

Hummingbird feeders and houses are usually made of acrylic or glass. They are also available in wood and plastic; however these do not work as effectively and may cause harm to the birds (slivers and cuts). Hummingbird houses and feeders come in a variety of sizes and shapes and usually contain numerous feeding areas throughout the feeder.

Where Should I Put My Hummingbird Feeder?

Ideally, a hummingbird feeder should be hung near a garden with bright flowers and plants. A flowery location is most likely to attract the attention of hummingbirds. For your viewing pleasure, you may want to hang your feeder in a place that can be easily seen from your home. For example a hummingbird feeder hung in front of a window can be admired all day.

How Much Do Hummingbird Feeders Cost?

The styles and designs differ so much that it's difficult to determine a specific price. Hummingbird feeders and houses can cost anywhere from $10 to $50 - depending on the style, design and features.

Greg Pilson is an avid bird watcher who also dabbles in freelance photography of his favorite subjects. When he's not working full time in the engineering industry, he writes as a freelance writer for http://www.birdfeedersdirect.com ? a site that offers information about various types of bird feeders and bird houses.

---

Enjoy Creating and Growing a Sustainable Garden While Feeding Your Family

A sustainable garden means one that can be sustained over... Read More

Backyard Landscaping

When most people think of landscaping, they think of a... Read More

Hydroponics Gardening verses Organic Gardening: Which Grows the Best Cannabis?

Copy-write 2005 Jan Money.Hydroponics gardening offers many advantages to the... Read More

Water Pond Designs

You can have different water pond designs, however ones that... Read More

Oregano: Joy of the Mountain

Known as "joy of the mountain," Origanum vulgare is commonly... Read More

Care of Dendrobium Orchids

DendrobiumsThis month I am focusing our attention to the care... Read More

Edgeworthia Chrysantha

Although it is a member of the Thymelaeaceae, the family... Read More

Landscape Design

Landscaping is a wonderful pastime enjoyed by many. It provides... Read More

June Gardening Tips

These are just a few gardening tips for you to... Read More

Gardening Vertically: Fad, Emerging Frontier or Long-Overlooked Art Form

Sure, it makes sense that there's a buzz about vertical... Read More

February in the Garden

Often in February there is a surprisingly warm day. Everybody... Read More

Growing Great Asparagus

I went out to feed the birds this morning -... Read More

With So Many Choices For Patio Furniture, Finding The Perfect Set To Complement Your Yard Is Easy

There is nothing more relaxing than kicking back with a... Read More

A Teak Chair - Create a Livable Outdoor Space with One

When creating a comfortable, usable outdoor space, nothing could me... Read More

The Perfect Garden Sundial

Is it possible for a garden sundial to tell perfect... Read More

Fertilizers - What you Need to Feed Your Lawn

Just like humans need food, water and shelter to survive,... Read More

Patio Design ? Expanding Your Home Outdoors

A patio can be... Read More

Gift Ideas for Bird Lovers

Some of the best gifts you can give to a... Read More

Learn All About Feng Shui Money Trees

A feng shui money tree is an indoor plant used... Read More

Bonsai Trees - Our Own Little Forest

Bonsai trees have been grown in China and Japan for... Read More

Preliminary Considerations Before Building Your Own Backyard Garden Pond

This article is geared towards the beginner water gardener, who... Read More

Agio Patio Furniture

The fresh air of the early spring solstice and the... Read More

Feeding the Hummingbirds

Early in May here in west central Wisconsin, I can... Read More

Unique Flowers make a memorable gift!

Think "outside of the box" when sending your next floral... Read More

Lawn Care Business Owners - Dont Buy Yourself A Job

Most businesses consist of the owner only or the owner... Read More

Landscaping Design - The Primary Principles

Principles refer to standards or prescriptions for working with or... Read More

The Heralded Teak Furniture Manufacturer: Kingsley-Bate

With an average lifespan of 75 years, teak wood has... Read More

How To Build A Waterfall

The number one, most asked question that I receive about... Read More

You Cant Beat Perennials For Glorious Color All Season Long

When you start gardening with perennials, it's easy to think... Read More

Wind Chimes Go Great With Gardening

What could be more relaxing than gardening on a nice... Read More

Selecting Outdoor Benches

Outdoor benches are an excellent way to enhance a garden,... Read More

How To Brighten Up Your Home With These Flower Arrangement Ideas

A beautiful flower arrangement piece can become the focal point... Read More

How to Make Your Backyard a Wonderland Oasis

Home and garden accessories make the difference between house and... Read More