BE AWARE THAT HABITAT TYPE MORE THAN ANY OTHER FACTOR, WILL IN MOST CASES, DICTATE THE SPECIES OF BIRD THAT VISIT YOUR PROPERTY.
How to Attract Ruby Throated Hummingbird
The zipping and buzzing of a Ruby-Throated Hummingbird is a cherished sight in eastern gardens across the United States. Despite its small size, this bright bird is very bold and will approach humans – and in some cases even drink nectar out of their open hands. The simplest way to attract a Ruby-Throated Hummingbird is to purchase a hummingbird feeder and then to fill it with the appropriate nectar solution (which can easily be made at home using 1 part sugar for 4 parts water – no food dye necessary). A more natural option is to plant tubular and trumpet shaped flowers (these shapes are conducive to hummingbird nectar extraction mechanics), probably the best flower option is Trumpet Honeysuckle, which is sure to attract these birds. Other flowers Hummingbirds have displayed an affinity for are: Cardinal Flower, Red Columbine, Wild Bergamot, and Bee-Balm. Keep in mind that Ruby-Throated Hummingbirds are particularly enchanted by the colors red, orange, and purple. Besides nectar, Ruby-Throated Hummingbirds will also eat small insects, especially while breeding.
Top Ways to Attract Ruby-Throated Hummingbird
Trees & Shrubs that Attract Ruby-Throated Hummingbird
Flowers & Vines that Attract Ruby-Throated Hummingbird
- Bee Balm (Nectar)
- Blue Flag Iris (Nectar)
- Blue Wild Indigo (Nectar)
- Cardinal Flower (Nectar)
- Field Thistle (Nectar)
- Foxglove Beardtongue (Nectar)
- Great Blue Lobelia (Nectar)
- Jewelweed (Nectar)
- Milkweed (Nectar)
- Purple Coneflower (Nectar)
- Red Columbine (Nectar)
- Sunflower (Nectar)
- Trumpet Creeper (Nectar)
- Trumpet Honeysuckle (Nectar)
- Virginia Blue Bells (Nectar)
- Wild Bleeding Heart (Nectar)
Attracting Ruby-Throated Hummingbird with a Bird Feeder
- Feeder Type:
- Nectar Feeder
- Feed:
- Nectar
Ruby Throated Hummingbird Information
Ruby Throated Hummingbird Identification:
- Small-sized hummingbird
- Shiny emerald-colored upperparts, whiteish underparts, only male features the ruby-red throat.
Ruby Throated Hummingbird Habitat:
- Spring/Summer (Breeding Range): Open Woodlands, Forest Edge, Backyards, Parks, Gardens - anywhere with their favorite flowers
- Most winter in Central America, some in Southern Florida
Ruby Throated Hummingbird Eating Habits:
- Primarily nectar – especially from red/orange/purple tubular and trumpet-shaped flowers
- Small flying insects/spiders - while breeding breeding
Ruby Throated Hummingbird Nesting:
- Deciduous trees