Tips on gardening in your backyard

hummingbird perching at feeder

Do hummingbirds prefer to perch or hover when feeding at a hummingbird feeder?

Well, I’ve seen a lot of discussion on this but here is the real answer - they do both. Look at this picture taken on my backyard deck. This hummer is sitting here taken a drink.

hummingbird perching at feeder

The one above is a rear view. I sit out and drink my coffee in the morning and watch these little guys. The feeder is about 6 feet from my chair and they have no problems visiting when I am out there. As long as I make no sudden movements, they act like I’m not there.

Some of them seem to hover and drink and others prefer to take a break.

I’m telling you. There is nothing like it. The birds were attracted by our plants and I didn’t even have a feeder up until I noticed we were getting numerous hummingbirds. I put one up and we are enjoying them immensely. My 5 year old grandson loves them.

I will have more on hummingbirds in other posts, including how to choose a feeder. The answer might surprise you.

August 24th, 2008 at 1:08 pm | Comments & Trackbacks (0) | Permalink


HummingbirdTo make artificial nectar for the hummingbirds to enjoy, use four parts water to one part table sugar.

Never use artificial sweeteners, honey or fruit juices. Place something red on the feeder. Clean your feeder with hot soapy water at least twice a week to keep it free of mold.

Food coloring is not needed. Most hummingbird feeders have a red color somewhere on the feeder to help attract the hummingbirds and, if it doesn’t, add a little red yourself.

Hummingbirds are fascinating and dart around here and there. It is unreal how fast they actually are.

Put forth a little effort to attract these little guys and you will be well rewarded.<br clear=left>

June 21st, 2008 at 12:57 pm | Comments & Trackbacks (0) | Permalink