When to Feed Those Feathery Freeloaders: A Houstonian's Guide
So, you want to become a hummingbird hotellier, huh? Welcome to the club! Nothing beats the thrill of seeing those tiny, iridescent missiles zipping around your yard. But when exactly should you roll out the red carpet, or in this case, the sugar water? Let's dive in.
The Great Hummingbird Migration: Houston Edition
Houston, we have a hummingbird problem (in a good way)! Our fair city is a pit stop for these tiny jet engines on their epic migration journeys. Spring brings a wave of these winged wonders as they head north, and then they return for a southbound encore in late summer.
The Sweet Spot: While some die-hard hummingbird enthusiasts keep feeders up year-round, the optimal time to attract the most visitors is during migration. That means early March to late May for the northbound flight, and August to October for the southbound adventure.
Timing is Everything (Almost)
- Don't be too early: Putting out feeders before the migration can lead to disappointed hummingbirds. They're busy birds, and they don't have time for empty promises.
- Don't be too late: If you wait too long, you might miss the party altogether. Those little guys are on a tight schedule.
Pro Tip: Keep an eye on local birdwatching groups or online forums. They often share sightings and can give you a heads-up about when the hummingbirds are expected to arrive.
Feeder Etiquette: Keep Your Guests Happy
Once you've mastered the art of timing, it's time to focus on hospitality. Cleanliness is key! Hummingbirds are picky eaters, so make sure to scrub those feeders regularly. Moldy nectar is a one-way ticket to empty feeders.
Also, resist the urge to experiment with fancy hummingbird recipes. Stick to the classic four parts water to one part white granulated sugar. No red dye, please! Their tiny little hummingbird hearts can't handle the artificial stuff.
How To... Hummingbird Edition
- How to attract hummingbirds to your yard? Plant native flowers that produce nectar, like trumpet vine, salvia, and columbine.
- How to clean a hummingbird feeder? Use hot water and a bottle brush to scrub away any sugar residue or mold.
- How to make hummingbird nectar? Mix four parts water with one part white granulated sugar. No red dye!
- How to hang a hummingbird feeder? Place the feeder in a sunny spot, preferably near flowers, and at a height of 3 to 4 feet.
- How to prevent ants from invading your hummingbird feeder? Use a hummingbird feeder with ant guards or apply a light coat of petroleum jelly to the feeder's hanging hook.