Hummingbirds are charming creatures. Their iridescent feathers and dramatic aerial maneuvers invalidate their tiny size. For enthusiasts of these fascinating birds, here are five must-have accessories to enhance your hummingbird watching experience.
A Quality Hummingbird Feeder
A hummingbird feeder is the crux of attracting these beautiful birds. When selecting a quality hummingbird feeder, consider some key factors – user-friendly design, wide openings for easy cleaning, and built-in ant protection features. Feeders with wider openings ensure thorough cleaning, which is essential to prevent the spread of diseases among hummingbirds. Also, an integrated ant protection feature mustn’t be overlooked, as ants tend to swarm feeders, creating a barrier between the birds and the nectar. Discovering a feeder with these qualities, in addition to an aesthetically pleasing design, strikes an excellent balance between functionality and appearance.
The Right Sugar Solution
Providing the right sugar solution in your feeder is key to attracting and sustaining your hummingbird visitors. Commercially available solutions often add chemicals or dyes that are harmful to hummingbirds. Instead, use a homemade solution of one part natural cane sugar to four parts water. Cane sugar is the closest to the nectar hummingbirds enjoy in the wild. Steer clear of dyed solutions and honey, as they can cause harmful fungal growth. Boil this mixture, cool it down, and store any excess in the refrigerator for future use.
Hummingbird Swing
Consider adding a hummingbird swing to your viewing area. Hummingbirds are territorial creatures and enjoy a place to rest while they guard their food source. A swing provides this perfect perch. Positioned a safe distance from the feeder, a swing allows the hummingbird to scan the area and dart off to chase away competitors. These swings are usually constructed from metal, with a wooden dowel for the perch, and can be adorned with beads or baubles for a bit of extra flair.
Ant Moat
An ant moat is another essential accessory for your hummingbird feeding station. As stated earlier, ants can swarm a feeder, inhibiting the hummingbirds from feeding. An ant moat functions as a barrier between the ants and the feeder. It’s an ingenious yet simple device – a small water-filled cup linked between the hanger and the feeder. Ants are neither swimmers nor floaters, and the water barricade keeps them away from the nectar. This device helps maintain a pleasant feeding experience for your hummingbird visitors.
Art & Jewelry Inspired by Hummingbirds
For passionate hummingbird enthusiasts, the experience can extend beyond the viewing area. Add a touch of nature-inspired elegance to your personal accessory collection with hummingbird-inspired pieces. From the stunning June Hunter collection to the resplendent Nature Saint necklace, hummingbird jewelry embodies the essence of these beautiful creatures. Wearing a piece of hummingbird-inspired art is a subtle and stylish way to voice your affinity for these jewel-toned marvels of nature.
<small>Image source: https://unsplash.com/photos/green-hummingbird-pollinating-on-pink-petaled-flowers-jQI1tnK6OEU </small>