When Are Those Tiny Tornado Birds in Texas?
So, you wanna know when those itty-bitty, sugar-loving helicopters of the bird world decide to grace the Lone Star State with their presence? Well, buckle up, bird watcher, because we’re about to dive into the fascinating world of hummingbird migration.
Spring Break for Hummingbirds
Let's talk about the spring migration first. These tiny dynamos usually start trickling into Texas around mid-March. Think of it as their spring break. They're escaping the cold, northern climes and coming down to Texas for some R&R. By mid-May, the majority of them have arrived and are ready to party. Or, you know, build nests and raise babies.
Summer Lovin' in Texas
Once spring break is over, it's time to get down to business. Most hummingbirds stick around Texas for the summer to breed. So, if you're hoping to catch a glimpse of these little marvels in action, summer is your prime time. Just remember, they're busy little creatures, so don't be surprised if you don't see them hanging around the feeder all day. They've got babies to feed!
Fallin' for Texas
Come late July, the hummingbirds start to think about heading south again. It's like a reverse spring break. They'll gradually leave Texas, with most of them gone by mid-November. But don't be too sad! Some hardy souls might stick around for the winter, especially in the southern parts of the state.
Important Note: These are general timelines, and things can vary depending on the weather. A cold snap can delay migration, while an early warm spell might bring them in sooner. So, keep your eyes peeled, and you might just spot a hummingbird when you least expect it.
How to Attract Hummingbirds to Your Yard
Now that you know when to expect these winged wonders, let's talk about how to make your yard a hummingbird hotspot.
- How to make hummingbird food: Mix one part white granulated sugar with four parts water. Boil for two minutes to dissolve the sugar, then let it cool completely before filling your feeder.
- How to clean a hummingbird feeder: Wash your feeder with hot water and a mild dish soap. Rinse thoroughly and let it air dry before refilling.
- How to choose hummingbird plants: Opt for flowers with bright colors, tubular shapes, and lots of nectar. Some popular choices include salvia, trumpet vine, and cardinal flower.
- How to deter other birds from hummingbird feeders: Use hummingbird feeders with red flowers or perches to attract hummingbirds and deter other birds.
- How to protect hummingbirds from cats: Keep your cats indoors, especially during hummingbird migration season.
So there you have it! Now you're a hummingbird expert. Happy bird watching!
