Wednesday, August 3, 2011

Attracting Hummingbirds - Summertime in Arizona!

Summertime is hot, really hot in the desert Southwest.  There's not a lot blooming that Hummingbirds can eat, so they need a little help from us, their friends.

Food
Hummingbird nectar is easy to make, here's a good recipe.

1 part sugar
4 parts water

Never use honey or artificial sweeteners. Also, never use red food dye because it can hurt the birds.

If you see black spots in the feeder, it needs to be washed with hot water and mild soap that is easily rinsed out. Black spots mean mold and that can make your birds sick.
Penstemon



Attracting hummers 
Out here in the southwest we have hummingbirds all year round. Tubular shaped flowers of any color in your yard will attract them.

Plants such as: Arizona yellow bells, Valentine bush, Fairy duster,  Butterfly bush, Hollyhocks, Penstemon, Lantana, Hibiscus and Firecracker plant will provide them with organic food.


Lantana
Hummingbirds are very territorial, so don't be afraid to hang two or three feeders in your yard. They will find them quickly.

Enjoy these energetic birds as they dart, buzz and fly in all directions. It's an awesome show.