Hummingbirds are known for their ability to hover in midair as they feed on nectar from flowers. Their long, slender beaks allow them to access nectar deep within blooms. Hummingbirds have excellent color vision and are naturally drawn to both the color and shape of flowers. This leads many gardeners to wonder, what flower colors will best attract hummingbirds? Specifically, will flowers with bright red blooms successfully draw these energetic birds to a garden? What Colors Attract Hummingbirds? Hummingbirds are attracted to flower colors in the red to orange range, such as scarlet, red, and orange. They also feed from…
Author: Kia Primack
Woodpeckers are unique backyard birds with special needs when it comes to bird feeders. Their anatomy and feeding behaviors require bird feeders that allow them to cling vertically while they peck away at food sources. Choosing the right feeder style can attract more woodpeckers to your yard and provide better viewing opportunities. What do woodpeckers eat? Woodpeckers are omnivores and will eat both plant-based and animal-based foods. Their typical diet consists of: Insects (ants, beetle larvae, caterpillars) Nuts (acorns, almonds, pecans) Berries Sap Seeds (sunflower, millet, corn) Suet Fruit They use their specialized beaks to drill into trees and wood…
Quick Answer Yes, hummingbirds are attracted to and enjoy feeding from Mexican Bird of Paradise flowers. The bright orange and red tubular flowers provide an excellent source of nectar for hummingbirds. Hummingbirds like the Heliconia psittacorum variety in particular. What Attracts Hummingbirds to Mexican Bird of Paradise Flowers? There are a few key reasons why hummingbirds are drawn to Mexican Bird of Paradise flowers: Bright Colors Hummingbirds have excellent color vision and are attracted to vibrantly colored flowers in shades of red, orange, and yellow. The bright red and orange bracts (modified leaves) of the Mexican Bird of Paradise flower…
Many people notice that hummingbirds seem to disappear from their yards and gardens earlier each fall. This leads to the question – are hummingbirds migrating south earlier than they used to? There are a few factors that can help explain what’s going on. When do hummingbirds migrate? Hummingbirds migrate south in the fall to escape cold weather and find food. Most hummingbirds migrate in August or September, but some species wait until late September or early October. The exact timing depends on a few factors: Location – Hummingbirds in northern areas migrate earlier than ones further south Weather – Cold…
In the state of Wyoming, there is one particular species of moth that is well-known for resembling a hummingbird. This amazing moth is called the White-lined Sphinx Moth (Hyles lineata). Quick Facts About the White-Lined Sphinx Moth Here are some quick facts about this moth that looks like a hummingbird: Species Name: Hyles lineata Wingspan: 2.5-3.5 inches Coloration: Tan/brown with white stripes on abdomen and outer wings Mimics: Hummingbirds Range: Throughout North America including Wyoming Habitat: Gardens, fields, parks, meadows Active Period: Mainly dusk to dawn but does fly during the day Larval Host Plants: Willowweed, apple, elm, grape, and…
Hummingbirds are known for their bright, iridescent plumage that shimmers in the sunlight. However, some hummingbirds also have small white spots on their feathers. These spots are perfectly natural and nothing to be concerned about. What causes the white spots? The white spots, called leucisms, are caused by a partial loss of pigmentation in the feathers. Just as people can have birthmarks due to a lack of skin pigment, birds can have white spots due to a lack of melanin in some of their feathers. Leucism is different from albinism, which is a complete lack of pigmentation. In leucism, only…
Hummingbirds are known for their speed and agility in flight, and for their ability to hover as they drink nectar from flowers. However, sometimes a hummingbird will take up residence near a feeder and act territorial, chasing away other hummingbirds that attempt to feed. There are a few possible reasons why a hummingbird might guard a feeder. Protecting a food source Hummingbirds have very high metabolisms and need to consume a lot of energy in the form of nectar each day in order to survive. A feeder provides a consistent and reliable source of food. By guarding a feeder, a…
Hummingbirds hold a special place in Native American culture, often seen as bringers of luck, joy, and wisdom. Their agility, vibrancy, and magical ability to hover in midair have inspired many evocative Native American names for these tiny birds. In this article, we will explore the myriad Native American words used for hummingbirds throughout the history of indigenous peoples of the Americas. From the Aztecs of Mexico to the Cherokee of the Southeast woodlands, hummingbirds populate Native American legends, myths, and languages. The Significance of Hummingbirds in Native American Culture Before delving into the diverse array of Native American terms…
Finding an injured bird can be upsetting. You want to help the poor creature, but you may not know the best way to do so. Calling the right people or organization is the first step in getting the bird the assistance it needs. This article will provide information on who to contact if you find an injured bird near you. Assess the Situation The first thing you should do upon finding an injured bird is assess the situation. Is the bird able to fly away from you? Does it appear to have any broken bones or bleeding? Is it a…
Quick answer Yes, there are several species of hummingbirds that can be found in Gulf Shores, Alabama throughout the year. The most common species seen in the area are the Ruby-throated Hummingbird which breeds in the area in summer, and the Rufous Hummingbird which winters along the Gulf Coast. Overview of hummingbird species in Gulf Shores, Alabama Here are some of the hummingbird species that may be spotted in Gulf Shores, Alabama: Ruby-throated Hummingbird The Ruby-throated Hummingbird (Archilochus colubris) is the most widespread and commonly observed hummingbird in eastern North America. This bright green and red hummingbird breeds throughout the…
