Insects and Spiders as Protein Source for Hummingbirds
Hummingbirds require a balanced diet for survival. Nectar fulfills their energy needs due to its high sugar content. But to stay healthy and promote growth and reproduction, they also need protein, vitamins and minerals. That’s where insects and spiders come into play, providing the much-needed protein. According to thespruce.com, these tiny birds are known to consume a variety of insects including gnats, flies, and beetles. Spiders and their eggs also form a substantial part of their diet. In fact, mother hummingbirds often feed their newly hatched chicks with a purée of insects and spiders as it’s packed with protein and other vital nutrients.
Feeding Hummingbirds: Sap from Trees
While nectar from flowers and insects tops the menu for hummingbirds, they also relish tree sap. In spring, when flowers are scarce, hummingbirds take advantage of sap wells created by sapsuckers, a type of woodpecker. The sap, rich in sugar much like nectar, serves as an alternate energy source. A fascinating point to note from onthefeeder.com is that setting up hummingbird feeders can cater to their craving for sweet sap. Artificial nectar, typically a solution of 4 parts water to one part ordinary white granulated sugar, could do the trick.
Fruits and Berries: Nutrient-Rich Source for Hummingbirds
Providing fruits and berries for hummingbirds can be an excellent way to supplement their diet with additional vitamins and nutrients. Hummingbirds are inclined towards soft fruits which are easy to pierce through. As stated on a-z-animals.com, they can sip the juice from fruits like apples, oranges, and pears if they’re cut in half and exposed. It’s easiest for them to extract juice from overripe fruits as they are softer and the juices more accessible. Despite their tiny size, hummingbirds contribute significantly to the ecosystem by helping in the pollination of these fruits during their feeding process.
Hummingbirds and Other Foods: Pollen and Ash
Pollen maybe accidental food for hummingbirds, but it serves as an excellent source of proteins, fats, and vitamins. While extracting nectar from flowers, hummingbirds inadvertently pick up pollen grains. According to onthefeeder.com, this incidental ingestion of pollen serves as a nutritious part of their diet. Interestingly, they also consume ash from burnt plants. This is relatively rare but can occur in areas where forest fires might have occurred. The nutrient composition of ash makes it a beneficial albeit uncommon part of their diet.
<small>Image source: https://unsplash.com/photos/gray-bird-in-red-and-clear-glass-bird-feeder-YxTbFkQ674A </small>