September marks the beginning of an incredible journey for hummingbirds, as they embark on their long migration to warmer climates. These tiny birds, known for their vibrant colors and rapid wing beats, will travel thousands of miles to their wintering grounds in Central America and Mexico. It’s a journey that requires an immense amount of energy, and as gardeners and bird lovers, we have a unique opportunity to help these remarkable creatures along the way. By providing the right food, shelter, and resources, we can make a real difference in their journey.
Watching hummingbirds flit through your garden is one of the joys of summer, but as they prepare for migration, their needs change. They require more food to fuel their long journey, and they seek out safe places to rest along the way. By making a few adjustments in your garden this September, you can create a haven for these little travelers and ensure they have the resources they need to complete their migration successfully. Let’s explore how you can help hummingbirds on their epic journey this fall.
Keep Your Feeders Up and Full
One of the simplest and most effective ways to help hummingbirds during their migration is by keeping your feeders up and filled with fresh nectar. As the days shorten and the temperatures start to cool, hummingbirds need extra energy to fuel their journey. A reliable source of nectar can make all the difference, especially as natural food sources begin to dwindle. Make sure to clean your feeders regularly, at least once a week, to prevent mold and bacteria from forming. Fill them with a solution of four parts water to one part white sugar, and avoid using red dye, which can be harmful to the birds.
Leaving your feeders up well into September, or even October, won’t delay their migration. Hummingbirds migrate based on instinct and daylight cues, not food availability. In fact, having a steady supply of nectar can help late-migrating birds or those that may have started their journey late due to weather or other factors. By keeping your feeders stocked, you provide a critical energy source that helps them on their way. Plus, you’ll likely be rewarded with the sight of these beautiful birds stopping by for a quick refuel before continuing their journey.
Plant Late-Blooming Flowers
In addition to feeders, another great way to support migrating hummingbirds is by planting late-blooming flowers that provide natural nectar. Flowers like salvia, bee balm, and trumpet vine are excellent choices because they continue to produce blooms well into the fall. These plants offer a natural food source that hummingbirds rely on, and they also add vibrant color to your garden as the summer fades. Native plants are particularly beneficial because they’re well-adapted to the local climate and provide a familiar food source for hummingbirds.
When choosing plants for your garden, aim for a variety of colors and shapes, as different species of hummingbirds may prefer different types of flowers. Red, tubular flowers are especially attractive to hummingbirds, but don’t be afraid to mix in other colors as well. By creating a diverse garden with staggered bloom times, you can ensure that your garden remains a valuable stopover for migrating hummingbirds throughout the fall. This not only helps the birds but also keeps your garden lively and beautiful as the season changes.
Provide Shelter and Perches
Migration is exhausting for hummingbirds, and they need safe places to rest and shelter along the way. In your garden, you can provide this by offering natural cover in the form of trees, shrubs, and other plants. Dense foliage gives hummingbirds a place to hide from predators, rest during their journey, and even spend the night. Plants like conifers, honeysuckle, and elderberry are great choices because they offer both shelter and, in some cases, additional food sources like berries or insects.
In addition to shelter, consider adding perches to your garden. Hummingbirds are highly territorial and often take breaks between feeding sessions to rest on a perch where they can survey their surroundings. You can create perches by placing small branches or twigs near your feeders or flowering plants, or by installing commercial hummingbird perches. By providing these resting spots, you help hummingbirds conserve energy, making it easier for them to continue their migration. Plus, perches give you a chance to observe these fascinating birds up close as they take a moment to rest.
Avoid Pesticides
One of the most important things you can do to support hummingbirds during their migration is to avoid using pesticides in your garden. Pesticides can kill the insects that hummingbirds rely on for protein, especially during migration when they need to build up energy reserves. In addition to nectar, hummingbirds eat small insects and spiders, which provide essential nutrients like protein and fat. By keeping your garden pesticide-free, you help ensure that hummingbirds have access to the food they need to complete their journey.
If pests are a concern in your garden, consider using natural or organic methods to control them. Companion planting, handpicking pests, and introducing beneficial insects like ladybugs can help manage pest populations without harming hummingbirds. Remember, a healthy, balanced garden is one that supports a wide variety of wildlife, including the insects that hummingbirds depend on. By fostering a garden that’s free of harmful chemicals, you create a safer, more welcoming environment for migrating hummingbirds and other pollinators.
Provide a Water Source
Hummingbirds need access to fresh water, not only for drinking but also for bathing. Bathing helps them keep their feathers clean and in good condition, which is crucial for efficient flight. You can provide a water source for hummingbirds by setting up a shallow birdbath, a misting fountain, or even a dripping water feature. The sound of moving water is particularly attractive to hummingbirds, as it mimics the natural streams and waterfalls they’re drawn to in the wild.
When providing water, make sure it’s clean and fresh. Change the water regularly, and clean the birdbath or fountain to prevent the buildup of algae and bacteria. If you’re using a birdbath, consider placing it near flowering plants or feeders to create a one-stop oasis for hummingbirds. Not only will they appreciate the water, but you’ll also get to enjoy the sight of these tiny birds splashing and playing as they refresh themselves for the next leg of their journey.
Support Native Plantings
Native plants play a crucial role in supporting hummingbirds during migration. These plants have co-evolved with local wildlife, providing the specific types of food and shelter that native species need. By incorporating native plants into your garden, you create a habitat that’s more likely to meet the needs of migrating hummingbirds. Native plants are also generally more resilient and require less maintenance than non-native species, making them a win-win for both you and the hummingbirds.
Consider researching which native plants are best suited to your region and most attractive to hummingbirds. In many areas, plants like columbine, jewelweed, and cardinal flower are excellent choices. By focusing on native species, you help ensure that your garden remains a valuable resource for hummingbirds and other wildlife throughout the migration season. Plus, native plants often have longer bloom times, providing a consistent source of nectar as the birds make their way south.
Be Patient and Observant
Finally, one of the most rewarding aspects of helping hummingbirds during their migration is the opportunity to observe their behavior up close. These birds are incredibly agile and fascinating to watch as they dart from flower to flower or hover at a feeder. Take the time to sit quietly in your garden and watch them as they go about their journey. You might notice patterns in their behavior, such as which flowers they prefer or how they interact with other hummingbirds.
Patience is key, as hummingbirds can be shy and elusive, especially when they’re focused on feeding and preparing for migration. By creating a welcoming environment and giving them the space they need, you’ll be more likely to witness their natural behaviors and perhaps even see them return year after year. Helping hummingbirds on their journey is not only beneficial for the birds but also a deeply rewarding experience for any gardener.
As hummingbirds begin their migration in September, there’s so much you can do to support them on their incredible journey. From keeping feeders full to planting late-blooming flowers and providing safe resting spots, your efforts can make a real difference. By creating a hummingbird-friendly garden, you not only help these amazing birds but also get to enjoy their beauty and energy as they pass through.
