When Do Those Tiny Terrorists Return to Chicago?
So, you’re sitting there, sipping your morning coffee, and you start to think, "Hey, wouldn't it be nice to see those little blurbs of color zipping around my garden again?" Ah, yes, the glorious return of our feathered friends, the hummingbirds! But when exactly do these tiny, high-energy helicopters decide to grace us with their presence? Let's dive in.
The Great Hummingbird Migration: A Tale as Old as Time (Well, Kind Of)
Hummingbirds are not the type to sit around and shovel snow. They’re more like the jet-setting celebrities of the bird world. When the weather starts to turn chilly, they pack their tiny suitcases (probably filled with tiny nectar-filled snacks) and head south for the winter. But fear not, Chicagoans! They do come back.
Typically, hummingbirds start arriving in Chicago around mid to late April. But let’s be real, nature doesn’t always follow a strict schedule. Some early birds (pun intended) might show up as early as March if the weather is particularly agreeable. And don’t be surprised if a straggler sticks around until late October. These little guys are unpredictable, just like your favorite reality TV star.
How to Attract Hummingbirds: Become a Hummingbird Hotspot
Want to increase your chances of spotting these winged wonders? Here are a few tips:
- Put out a hummingbird feeder: This is like putting up a "Welcome Home" sign for your feathered friends. Just make sure to keep it clean and filled with fresh nectar.
- Plant hummingbird-friendly flowers: Think red, pink, and orange blooms. These colors attract hummingbirds like crazy.
- Provide a water source: A small birdbath or fountain can be a refreshing oasis for these tiny creatures.
Hummingbird FAQs
How to make hummingbird nectar? Combine 1 part white granulated sugar with 4 parts water. Boil for 2 minutes, let cool completely, and fill your feeder.
How to clean a hummingbird feeder? Wash your feeder with hot, soapy water and rinse thoroughly. Avoid using harsh chemicals.
How to deter other birds from hummingbird feeders? Use a feeder with red flowers or red perches to attract hummingbirds. You can also try using a feeder with smaller feeding ports.
How to protect hummingbirds from cats? Keep your cats indoors, especially during hummingbird migration season. You can also install bird feeders out of reach of cats.
How to help injured hummingbirds? If you find an injured hummingbird, contact a local wildlife rehabilitator for assistance.
So there you have it, folks. The world of hummingbirds is full of surprises. Keep your eyes peeled, fill up those feeders, and enjoy the show!
