Spring migrations for warblers and small birds is finally underway! My first confirmed sighting of a Ruby-throated Hummingbird was on May 5, but many people saw them arrive even earlier. I saw one at my feeder, but there are many other places you can find them. If you want to attract hummers, as some people call them, you can put up a feeder, or simply plant flowers, such as zinnias and Bee Balm, that attract hummingbirds. Hummingbirds are also pollinators, which is just one more reason to entice this beautiful bird to your yard!

An ideal feeder for hummers is red, which is their favorite color, and it should also be clean. You should put in a small amount, such as a half cup, of hummingbird mixture. There is no need to buy this, because you can make it at home. Simply mix four parts water with one part sugar. I put in two cups of water, and a 1/2 cup of sugar, mix it, and then store the mixture in the refrigerator. There is no need to heat it up, but you should mix it until the sugar is completely dissolved. You should also NEVER add red dye to your mixture. This can be harmful or even deadly to hummingbirds. 

Although a feeder can be confusing to set up at first, hummers are definitely worth the work. This beautiful bird will visit you all summer long, and give you great views of its shiny throat (if it is a male). Happy birding!