When Do Those Tiny Tornado Birds Return to East Texas?
So, you’re sitting on your porch, sipping sweet tea, and suddenly, you hear that unmistakable whirring sound. You look up, and there it is – a tiny, iridescent blur of fury, hovering like a helicopter and drinking nectar from your flowers. It’s a hummingbird, y’all! And if you’re in East Texas, you’re probably wondering, "When the heck are these little speed demons coming back?"
Hummingbird Houdini Act: Disappearing and Reappearing
Hummingbirds are like the Houdinis of the bird world. One day they’re zipping around your feeders, and the next, poof! They’re gone. It's like they've vanished into thin air, leaving you to wonder if you imagined the whole thing. Well, fear not, hummingbird enthusiasts! They’re just taking a little vacation to warmer climates.
Typically, hummingbirds start showing up in East Texas around mid-March. But don't quote me on that. These little guys are as unpredictable as the Texas weather. Some years, they're early birds, and others, they're late sleepers. It all depends on the weather conditions and the availability of food.
How to Attract Those Feathery Fidget Spinners
Now that you know when to expect your hummingbird visitors, let's talk about how to make your yard a hummingbird haven. These tiny terrors have high energy needs, so they need a constant supply of nectar. Here are a few tips:
- Hang hummingbird feeders: Fill them with a sugar-water solution (4 parts water to 1 part sugar) and change the nectar regularly.
- Plant hummingbird-friendly flowers: Red, tubular flowers like trumpet vine, salvia, and columbine are hummingbird magnets.
- Provide a water source: Hummingbirds love to bathe in shallow water, so offer them a birdbath or a mister.
Hummingbird FAQs
How to know if hummingbirds are nearby?
- Look for signs like tiny flowers with holes in them (hummingbirds often steal nectar), or small, iridescent birds zipping around.
How to deter squirrels from hummingbird feeders?
- Use hummingbird feeders with squirrel-proof features, or place them out of reach of squirrels.
How to clean a hummingbird feeder?
- Wash your feeder with hot, soapy water and rinse thoroughly before refilling.
How to make hummingbird nectar?
- Mix 4 parts water with 1 part white granulated sugar. Do not add red dye or artificial sweeteners.
How to help injured hummingbirds?
- Contact a local wildlife rehabilitator for assistance.
So, there you have it! Keep your eyes peeled for those tiny, winged wonders. And remember, patience is key when it comes to hummingbirds. They’ll show up when they’re good and ready. Until then, enjoy your sweet tea and the great outdoors!