With warmer weather on the horizon, birders are getting busy this spring. Whether it’s brushing up on your birding by ear, organizing your yard or researching the perfect type of feeder or nesting box to place in your yard, we are here to help you along.
As we get deeper into the spring, one of our favourite summer residents will soon arrive, although their timing can be somewhat difficult to predict. Among many other reasons, daylight hours are often the biggest indicator that hummingbirds will use to time their migration, both in the spring and in the fall seasons.
In light of their pending return, we have compiled a short, but comprehensive list of everything you will need to create the ideal hummingbird habitat right in your backyard.
Food
We all know how hard these birds work to move around on a daily basis. To support these high-energy birds you will want to ensure you are supplying them with the right food. Using the right nectar in your hummingbird feeders is one way, but another is planning your gardening around hummingbirds.
Flowers are a great and natural attractant for hummingbirds gives them some additional shelter and even aids in the pollination of plants.
Shelter
If you have ever watched a hummingbird, it’s no secret. These birds are reclusive and while they can eventually be hand-fed, they take a lot of work before they are comfortable. Keep this in mind when designing a sheltered area for hummingbirds to perch and even nest. These birds are highly susceptible to predators and take their concealment very seriously.
When it comes to nesting, the same holds true. Their nests are not much bigger than a quarter and are often found in small nooks and crannies in tree branches or shrubs, so be sure to keep these areas safe and quiet when looking to attract a nesting hummingbird.
Water
In most cases, traditional bird baths are far too large for these tiny little birds. Hummingbirds will often opt for less-invasive water sources such as shallow puddles or slow-dripping water sources such as a dripper to safely stay hydrated.
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