When Will Those Tiny Terrorists Return?
The Eternal Question of Hummingbird Homecoming
Alright, let's talk about those tiny, buzzing bundles of energy that turn our peaceful gardens into aerial acrobatic shows – hummingbirds! Every year, we Central New Yorkers find ourselves eagerly awaiting their return. It's like waiting for your favorite TV show to come back on, but with less drama and more tiny wings.
So, when exactly do these little daredevils decide to grace us with their presence?
Well, the short answer is: it depends. Mother Nature, as always, has a wicked sense of humor and likes to keep us guessing. Generally, hummingbirds start trickling back into Central New York around late April or early May. But remember, this is Mother Nature we're talking about, not a clock. Some years, they're early birds, ready to show off their aerial skills as soon as the first warm breeze hits. Other years, they're more like night owls, preferring to sleep in until the weather is just right.
Tracking Those Teeny Titans
If you're the impatient type (and let's face it, who isn't when it comes to hummingbirds?), there are ways to satisfy your curiosity. Check out online resources and hummingbird migration maps. They can give you a general idea of when these tiny travelers are expected to arrive in your neck of the woods. It's like having a real-life bird-watching app without the creepy binoculars.
Prepare for the Invasion!
Okay, maybe "invasion" is a bit dramatic, but you get the idea. Once you've determined that hummingbirds are imminent, it's time to prep your garden. These little guys have high energy needs, so make sure you have plenty of nectar-rich flowers and hummingbird feeders ready to go. Trust me, there's nothing more heartbreaking than a hungry hummingbird hovering outside your window, giving you that "feed me, human" look.
Hummingbird FAQs
How to attract hummingbirds to my yard?
- Plant nectar-rich flowers like trumpet vine, bee balm, and salvia. Fill hummingbird feeders with a sugar-water solution and keep them clean.
How to make hummingbird food?
- Mix 1 part white granulated sugar with 4 parts water. Boil the mixture for 2 minutes to dissolve the sugar, then let it cool completely before filling your feeders.
How to clean a hummingbird feeder?
- Wash your feeder with hot, soapy water and rinse thoroughly. Avoid using dish soap as it can leave a residue harmful to hummingbirds.
How to deter squirrels from hummingbird feeders?
- There are squirrel-proof feeders available, or you can try hanging your feeders at least 10 feet away from trees or other structures squirrels can use to reach them.
How to help a hummingbird in distress?
- If you find an injured or exhausted hummingbird, contact a local wildlife rehabilitator for assistance.
So, there you have it. The world of hummingbird watching is full of surprises and endless fascination. Happy birdwatching!