When Do Those Tiny Tornado-Birds Hit Houston?
So, you’re dying to know when those itty-bitty, sugar-crazed helicopters of the bird world decide to grace Houston with their presence, huh? Well, buckle up, because we're about to dive into the fascinating world of hummingbird migration.
Spring Fling: The Great Northern Adventure
You might think these little dynamos are Texans through and through, but think again! Most hummingbirds are actually Northerners at heart. They’re like the snowbirds of the avian world, except instead of trading in their winter coats for swimsuits, they swap maple syrup for nectar.
So, when does the spring fling start? Typically, around March to May, Houston starts seeing a flurry of hummingbird activity. It's like the city gets a sudden influx of tiny, winged caffeine addicts. But don’t get too attached, because these lovebirds are just passing through on their way to their summer breeding grounds.
Fall Back: The Southern Migration
Just when you're starting to think you’ve got the hang of hummingbird hospitality, they up and leave again! Yep, these little jetsetters aren’t ones to stay put. Come August to October, they're back in town, but this time they're heading south for the winter. It's like a reverse migration, but with less complaining about the cold.
The Lucky Few: Houston's Year-Round Hummingbird Hangout
Now, while most hummingbirds are just passing through, there are a lucky few who decide to stick around Houston year-round. These are the true Texans, the ones who don't mind a little heat. So, if you’re lucky, you might spot one of these hardy souls braving the winter weather.
Pro Tip: If you want to increase your chances of spotting these winged wonders, consider planting hummingbird-friendly flowers and putting up a feeder. Just remember to keep that sugar water fresh and clean!
How to Attract Hummingbirds to Your Houston Yard
- How to choose the right hummingbird feeder: Opt for a red feeder with multiple feeding ports.
- How to make hummingbird nectar: Mix one part white granulated sugar with four parts water. No red dye, please!
- How to clean a hummingbird feeder: Wash with hot water and vinegar to prevent mold.
- How to plant hummingbird-friendly flowers: Consider native plants like salvia, trumpet vine, and Texas sage.
- How to protect hummingbirds from predators: Place feeders away from windows and cat-friendly areas.
So there you have it, the hummingbird hustle in Houston. These tiny marvels bring a touch of magic to our city, so let's make sure to give them a warm welcome (and plenty of sugar water) whenever they visit!
