Hummingbirds are small, colorful birds that are known for their ability to hover in midair and their high-pitched humming sound. They are also known for their love of nectar, which makes them a popular backyard bird for many people. One way to attract hummingbirds to your yard is by putting out a hummingbird feeder. However, it’s important to know when the best time is to put out a hummingbird feeder in order to attract the most hummingbirds to your yard.
The best time to put out a hummingbird feeder is when the hummingbirds are migrating through your area. In North America, the majority of hummingbirds migrate from their wintering grounds in Central America and Mexico to their breeding grounds in the United States and Canada. This migration typically occurs between late April and early May, depending on the species of hummingbird and the location. It’s important to put out your hummingbird feeder at this time in order to provide the birds with a food source as they make their journey.
It’s also important to note that hummingbirds typically need a few days to a week to adjust to a new feeder, so it’s best to put your feeder out a few days before the migration begins. Once the hummingbirds start visiting your feeder, it’s important to keep it filled with fresh nectar. It’s also important to clean the feeder regularly, as dirty feeders can harbor harmful bacteria that can make the hummingbirds sick.
Another important factor to consider when putting out a hummingbird feeder is the timing of the breeding season for hummingbirds in your area. Some hummingbirds, such as the Ruby-throated Hummingbird, breed in the eastern United States, while others, like the Anna’s Hummingbird, breed year-round in the western United States. If you live in an area where hummingbirds breed, it’s important to put out your feeder during the breeding season so that the birds can use the nectar as a food source for themselves and their young.
It’s also important to note that hummingbirds feed on nectar from flowers, not only from the feeders, so if possible, it is always best to have native plants that bloom during the spring and summer to provide nectar.
Lastly, it’s important to take down your hummingbird feeder when the migration is over, usually around September or October. This will help prevent the hummingbirds from becoming dependent on the feeder, and will also reduce the risk of disease transmission.
In conclusion, the answer to “when to put out hummingbird feeders” is during the migration season, which typically occurs between late April and early May. It’s also important to consider the timing of the breeding season and to keep the feeder clean and filled with fresh nectar. And it’s also recommended to take down the feeder once migration is over, usually around September or October. By following these guidelines, you’ll be able to attract the most hummingbirds to your yard and enjoy watching these beautiful birds up close.