In my case it is the Ruby-throated Hummingbird (or Hummer as I call it) that is back. The Ruby-throated Hummer is the only hummer you will find where I live in Northern Kentucky. Yes, there have been other species here such as the Anna’s Hummingbird which somehow get lost in their migration and end up at someone’s feeder for a period of time. However, it is not always a guarantee.
Usually around the end of April or very early May, I spot the Ruby-throated Hummingbird at my nectar feeder that my dear husband puts up the first of April. Actually we have 3 different feeders placed strategically around our backyard. I just don’t want to miss them when they return. They are one of my favorite spring/summertime birds.
Hummers Love Nectar From Flowers Too!
Hummers feed on the nectar of red, orange, or any tubular flower that contains nectar such as bee-balm, the cardinal flower, trumpet creeper, and honeysuckle to name a few. They also like the mandevilla vine and the purple passion flower as well as petunias and superbells. Honestly, there are a lot more flowers that attracts the hummers.
If you are not sure what flowers to buy just check the information inserted in the flower container when you purchase it. Right along side where it tells you how much shade/sun the flower likes it will usually tell you if it attracts bees, hummers, or butterflies. Or you can ask me. I would be happy to help you with that. Ask your questions in the comments below.
And are they a delight to observe…
Hummingbirds range in size from 7.5 – 13cm long and flap their wings about 80 times per second. They can fly right, left, up, down, backwards, and even upside down. They are also able to hover by flapping their wings in a figure 8 pattern. So watching them zip around is entertaining.
As mentioned above, they generally are attracted to red. Well, my hair is red and if I am sitting outside on my back deck, sometimes they will hover over me to check me out. I have also had them brush through my hair thinking it was a flower.
You’ll Know When one is Around
If you hear a zzzzzzzzzzz sound that usually indicates they are nearby. Yes, it could be a bee but once you hear them a few times you kind of get to know what they sound like.
Attracting these iridescent beauties is a must to my backyard. How about for you?
Please feel free to make your comments about this post below.
Happy Birding!
