Ruby-Throated Hummingbird on Nest

Hummingbirds Are Nesting Now!

In Pennsylvania, hummingbirds typically start laying eggs in late spring to early summer. The Ruby-throated Hummingbird, which is the most common species in the region, begins its breeding season in May. Females build their nests and lay eggs usually between May and July. The timing can vary slightly depending on the local climate and environmental conditions, but generally, the peak of egg-laying occurs in early June. The nests are often well-concealed in trees or shrubs, and the females lay one to three eggs per clutch, which are incubated for about two weeks before hatching.

Ruby-throated Hummingbirds have incredibly high metabolic rates and need to eat frequently to sustain their energy levels. They typically feed every 10 to 15 minutes throughout the day. This means they can visit hundreds of flowers and feeders daily to consume enough nectar. In addition to nectar, they also eat small insects and spiders, which provide essential protein. Their frequent feeding helps them maintain their high energy demands for activities like hovering, flying, and maintaining body temperature.

Female Ruby-Throated Hummingbird at Feeder

Now Is The Time To Put Hummingbird Feeders Out

Putting out hummingbird feeders in June in Pennsylvania is crucial because this is when Ruby-throated Hummingbirds are most active in the region. June coincides with their breeding season, when they require extra energy to sustain their activities of nest building, feeding young, and preparing for migration. During this time, natural nectar sources may be limited, and feeders provide a reliable and accessible food source. Additionally, setting up feeders in June allows you to attract and observe these vibrant birds up close, supporting their survival and contributing to their health and well-being during a critical period of their life cycle.

During the nesting season, Ruby-throated Hummingbirds will visit a hummingbird feeder frequently, often every 10 to 15 minutes. This frequent feeding is necessary to meet their high energy demands, especially during the breeding season when females are building nests, laying eggs, and feeding their young. The sugar-rich nectar from feeders provides a quick and efficient energy source, enabling them to sustain their intense activity levels. These visits can add up to hundreds of feeder stops in a single day, highlighting the importance of maintaining clean and well-stocked feeders to support their nutritional needs during this critical time.

Why are Hummingbirds Attracted to Red

Hummingbirds are attracted to the color red primarily because many of the flowers they feed on have evolved to be red. This evolutionary trait helps the flowers stand out against the green foliage, making them more visible to hummingbirds. Red flowers often produce nectar, a key food source for hummingbirds, which in turn pollinate the flowers as they feed. Additionally, the color red is less attractive to many insects, reducing competition for nectar. Thus, the mutual relationship between hummingbirds and red flowers has reinforced this preference over time.

Chose The Right Type Of Feeder

The best types of hummingbird feeders to use are those that are easy to clean, have bright red parts to attract the birds, and feature multiple feeding ports. Feeders with built-in ant moats and bee guards are especially beneficial to keep pests away from the nectar. Opt for feeders made from durable materials like glass or sturdy plastic, ensuring they can withstand outdoor conditions. Saucer-style feeders are often recommended as they are less prone to leakage and easier to clean compared to the inverted bottle type. Regular maintenance is essential, so choose a design that allows for easy disassembly and thorough cleaning to prevent mold and bacterial growth, ensuring a safe feeding environment for the hummingbirds.

Putting out multiple hummingbird feeders is important because it helps reduce territorial aggression among hummingbirds. These tiny birds can be highly territorial, especially during feeding. By providing several feeders, you distribute the feeding sites and minimize competition, allowing more birds to access the nectar without conflict. Additionally, multiple feeders can accommodate the increased number of hummingbirds during peak migration periods. This also ensures that if one feeder becomes empty or contaminated, the birds still have other sources of food. Strategically placing feeders in different areas of your yard can also attract a greater number of hummingbirds and provide better viewing opportunities for you to enjoy these vibrant visitors.

Making Hummingbird Nectar

Making hummingbird nectar is simple and involves only two ingredients: white granulated sugar and water. To create the nectar, mix one part sugar with four parts water. For example, you can combine one cup of sugar with four cups of water. Stir the mixture until the sugar is completely dissolved. It’s important to use plain white granulated sugar and avoid honey, artificial sweeteners, or food coloring, as these can be harmful to hummingbirds. After the sugar is dissolved, let the mixture cool to room temperature before filling your feeders. Any extra nectar can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Regularly clean your feeders and replace the nectar every few days to prevent fermentation and mold growth, ensuring the hummingbirds have a safe and healthy food source.

Do Not Dye Nectar Red!

Dyeing hummingbird nectar red with food coloring is discouraged because it poses potential health risks to the birds. Food coloring, especially the synthetic red dye often used, can contain chemicals that are harmful to hummingbirds. These chemicals may cause a range of health issues, from digestive problems to long-term organ damage. Moreover, there is no need to dye the nectar, as hummingbirds are naturally attracted to the red color of feeders without the added coloring. Providing clear, simple sugar water in a red feeder is a safer and equally effective way to attract hummingbirds while ensuring their health and well-being.

Keep Your Hummingbird Feeders Clean

Keeping hummingbird feeders clean is crucial for the health and safety of the birds. Dirty feeders can harbor mold, bacteria, and fungi, which can cause serious illnesses or even be fatal to hummingbirds. Nectar left in the sun can ferment quickly, producing harmful toxins. Regular cleaning, at least once a week in cooler weather and more frequently in hot weather, prevents these issues. Use hot water and a brush to scrub the feeders, and rinse thoroughly to remove any residue. By maintaining clean feeders, you ensure a safe feeding environment, support the hummingbirds’ health, and encourage them to return regularly, contributing to their overall well-being and survival.

You should change the nectar in your hummingbird feeder every 2 to 3 days, especially during hot weather, to prevent fermentation and bacterial growth. In cooler weather, it can be changed every 4 to 5 days. Regularly refreshing the nectar ensures it remains safe and appealing for the hummingbirds. If the nectar appears cloudy or you see any mold, it should be changed immediately, regardless of the time frame. Consistently providing fresh nectar helps attract hummingbirds and supports their health by ensuring they have a clean, reliable food source.

All About Hummingbird Nests

The ruby-throated hummingbird is renowned for its meticulous and intricate nest-building process. Female ruby-throated hummingbirds are solely responsible for constructing the nests, which are typically located on slender, often descending branches of deciduous or pine trees. The nest placement ensures a degree of safety and camouflage from predators and harsh weather.

Construction Materials and Process: The building process begins with the selection of materials, which include plant down, soft fibers from dandelions and thistles, and spider silk. Spider silk is particularly crucial, as it provides both elasticity and strength, allowing the nest to expand as the chicks grow. The female hummingbird meticulously weaves these materials together, creating a sturdy, flexible structure. The nest is often no larger than a golf ball, yet it provides enough space for the mother and her eggs.

Camouflage and Decoration: To ensure the nest blends seamlessly with its surroundings, the female ruby-throated hummingbird decorates the exterior with bits of lichen, moss, and even bits of bark. This natural camouflage makes it difficult for predators to spot the nest among the tree branches. The careful selection and placement of these materials highlight the bird’s instinctive ability to create a secure and inconspicuous home.

Egg Laying and Incubation: Once the nest is complete, the female lays one to three tiny white eggs. She then incubates the eggs for about two weeks, rarely leaving the nest except to feed. During this time, the nest’s insulation properties and the female’s body heat ensure a stable temperature for the developing embryos. The spider silk’s elasticity also plays a role here, as it allows the nest to accommodate the growing chicks without losing its shape or integrity.

Post-Hatching Care: After the eggs hatch, the female continues to care for her young, feeding them a mixture of regurgitated insects and nectar. The nest remains an essential shelter, protecting the chicks from the elements and potential threats. As the chicks grow, the nest stretches slightly due to the spider silk, providing additional space until the fledglings are ready to leave.

In summary, the ruby-throated hummingbird’s nest is a marvel of avian architecture, combining meticulous construction, strategic camouflage, and adaptive materials to create a safe and nurturing environment for the next generation. The female’s dedication to nest-building and chick-rearing highlights the incredible survival strategies of these tiny but remarkable birds.

Watch Hummingbirds Live!

Be sure to check out three of our live streaming bird feeder stations located in southwestern PA with hummingbird feeders. We are seeing hummingbirds daily.

PA Bird Feeder 1