When Do Those Tiny Tornado Birds Hit Houston?
So, you’re dying to know when those itty-bitty, sugar-crazed helicopters of the sky, aka hummingbirds, decide to grace Houston with their presence? Well, buckle up, bird lover, because this is about to get interesting.
Spring Break for Hummingbirds
Let's talk about the spring migration first. Picture this: It's late March, and you're starting to think about ditching your winter coat. Well, so are the hummingbirds! They're trading in their tropical vacation for a little R&R in the Lone Star State. Don't expect a full-blown hummingbird party right away, though. It's more like a VIP guest list situation at first. A few early birds (or should we say early birds) will show up to scout the place out. But don’t worry, by April, the hummingbird scene is in full swing.
Fall Fiesta
Now, let’s talk about their fall fling. Around August, you’ll notice a hummingbird comeback. It’s like a reverse migration, but without the jet lag. By September, the hummingbird population is back in full force, ready to fuel up for their long journey south.
Important Note:
How to Attract Hummingbirds
Alright, so you know when to expect these tiny terrors. But how do you convince them to stick around? Here are a few quick tips:
- How to make hummingbird food: Mix four parts water to one part white granulated sugar. Boil for two minutes, let cool completely, and fill your feeder.
- How to clean a hummingbird feeder: Wash your feeder with hot water and vinegar. Rinse thoroughly before refilling.
- How to choose hummingbird plants: Opt for flowers with bright colors, tubular shapes, and lots of nectar. Some favorites include salvia, trumpet vine, and cardinal flower.
- How to deter squirrels: Use squirrel-proof feeders or add baffles to your feeder to keep those pesky critters away.
- How to identify different hummingbird species: There are several hummingbird species in Houston. Use a field guide or online resources to help you identify them.
So, there you have it! The world of hummingbird migration and attraction in a nutshell. Now go forth and enjoy these tiny winged wonders!