From Ho Hum to Hummingbird Fun

Looking for some cheap, relaxing, and wholesome family fun? We recently put out a hummingbird feeder, and it has been tremendous fun to watch our little visitors buzz around, take a rest, and dive bomb one another.  Here are some pictures of this morning's visitors:

Resting, and warily watching for others

Fighting over the feeder

We love watching the little birds outside our living room window, and several of our recent weekend guests spent time in the recliner doing nothing other than watching the little acrobats.

So how can you bring this fun to your home?  Add a hummingbird feeder to your home.  Hummingbird feeders are readily available in the garden departments of stores during the summer, and the feeders are fairly inexpensive - basic models are about $10.  Ours was especially so, since we borrowed it from my parents who were not using it this year.  

Some hummingbird feeders are artwork in their own right. Below are some examples of the "beyond the basic" hummingbird feeders.

See more options even more options here:  Perry's hummingbird feeders

Things to Consider When Selecting a Hummingbird Feeder:

1. How much nectar/sugar water will the feeder hold?  Some of the decorative feeders are downright beautiful in their own right, but their small reserves for nectar will require frequent refills.  The nectar/sugar water should be changed frequently, but consider your availability for refilling.
2. Do you want perches for the hummingbirds to rest?  Some hummingbird feeders feature perches for the ever busy birds to rest while refueling.  The perches allow the little guys and gals to save some energy.  However, some prefer feeders without perches so pictures can be taken of the birds in flight. 
3. Where will you place the feeder?  Plan to place the feeder where you can see these beautiful creatures in action. 3' or less from a window is advised. 6' or more from a window can be dangerous as it allows them to fly full speed into a window.  Suction cup options allow you to see the birds up close. Another option is an inexpensive garden hook from which to hang your feeder.  See garden hook examples here: garden hooks   

After you purchase your feeder, you will need to fill it.  Nectar mixes are available in stores and online (hummingbird nectar), or you can make your own sugar water for your winged friends.

Basic Sugar Water Recipe for Hummingbirds:
4 parts water to 1 part white sugar.  Red dye is not necessary, especially if you have a bright colored feeder.
Filtered water is preferred.  The kiddos like to help making the sugar water by taking turns stirring.

Go out and enjoy these little acrobats before they migrate this year!

UPDATE: I originally posted incorrect information about feeder placement.  After seeing a little hummingbird deceased on our porch, I researched hummingbird feeder placement more in depth.  Apparently, placing the feeders closer to windows is better.  Feeders placed 6' or farther from a window allow the hummingbirds to increase their speed enough to cause death upon collision with a window.  Please keep distance in mind as you place your feeder.  Inexpensive window decals may also alert the birds to the presence of window.