By Diana Prichard

Weighing between just six and eight grams and measuring on average just three inches long, the tiny but beautiful Ruby-throated Hummingbird is one of the most awe inspiring creatures of the bird world. Their iridescent green back and white belly and breast makes for a stunning combination and a perfect backdrop for the male’s bright ruby throat. With their tiny wings beating at up to 75 times per second they can fly at speeds of 60 miles per hour, and at just half the size of a jelly bean their eggs are the smallest of all birds. All of this makes it no wonder they cause such awe when visiting backyard gardens, but they don’t have to be just occasional visitors. With a little effort and the right components your backyard can become a regular feeding ground for these tiny miracles.
Flowers rich in nectar are an instinctive attraction to Hummingbirds. To create appeal in your yard try planting gardens comprised primarily of nectar rich flowers. Some good choices for a Hummingbird garden include; Bee Balm, Bleeding Bush, Canna Lilies, Dahlia, Impatiens, and Sweet William. You can also consider adding bushes such as Azalea and Beauty bush to the mix, or even trees like; Apple, Crabapple, and Hawthorn. Attractive vines include; Honeysuckle, Trumpet Vine, and Morning Glory.
Once you’ve established nectar rich gardens consider adding nectar feeders nearby to maximize attraction. A nectar feeder is most often red in color however some clear varieties are also available. Red feeders will aid in initially attracting Hummingbirds to a yard that may be lacking in color, but will often fade after prolonged exposure to the sun. However while a clear feeder will look newer longer you may need to add a few drops of food coloring to your nectar initially, slowly reducing the amount over a course of weeks until you return to the nectars natural clear color. Pre-made nectar is available but you can also prepare your own at home. To make nectar combine 4 parts water with 1 part cane sugar, boil for 1 – 2 minutes and let cool. Remember your feeders will need cleaning every 2 -3 days to remove nectar build up. To avoid the need to purchase feeders yearly it is important to remember that your feeder is an investment. While it may be tempting to purchase one of the less expensive models in the store you should consider the ability of the feeder to hold up in the elements it will be exposed to.
Along with the Hummingbirds you will attract a few nectar loving insects as well. To discourage ants from using the feeder purchase an ant trap and attach it to the bottom of the base. Bees can often be distracted by applying Avon Skin-so-soft around the feeding ports of the feeder with a cotton swab prior to hanging.
Once you’ve established your gardens and feeders you will delight in the rewards of your work as you watch these beauties make your backyard home and return year after year.