Saving the Hummingbirds
Hundreds of thousands of hummingbirds that migrate through drought-stricken Texas could become victims of the parched conditions along that route.
To help the tiny feathered travelers along the way, conservationists urge backyard birders and anyone who cares about them to set out a feeder or two.
Mark Klym, co-author of “Hummingbirds of Texas,” said the drought has reduced the number of flowers that are a source of nectar and nutrition for hummingbirds.
Setting our hummingbird feeders will keep the birds hydrated and nourished, he said.
More than 18 species of hummingbirds will filter through parts of Texas and particularly through the Rio Grande Valley over the next eight to 10 weeks, the peak of the migrating season.
Maintaining supply of food and water, during September and October, will help the birds survive the migration.
Isaac Garcia/Valley Morning Star
To help the tiny feathered travelers along the way, conservationists urge backyard birders and anyone who cares about them to set out a feeder or two.
Mark Klym, co-author of “Hummingbirds of Texas,” said the drought has reduced the number of flowers that are a source of nectar and nutrition for hummingbirds.
Setting our hummingbird feeders will keep the birds hydrated and nourished, he said.
More than 18 species of hummingbirds will filter through parts of Texas and particularly through the Rio Grande Valley over the next eight to 10 weeks, the peak of the migrating season.
Maintaining supply of food and water, during September and October, will help the birds survive the migration.
Isaac Garcia/Valley Morning Star
Hummingbird Nector
Mix 1 part granulated sugar to four parts water that has been boiled. For example, 1 cup of granulated sugar to 4 cups of water. It is not necessary to buy prepared hummingbird nectar food, which can be more expensive than sugar-water.
Fill a hummingbird feeder halfway — about 1 cup at a time — to prevent the mixture from spoiling or fermenting in the heat.
Empty and clean the feeder every two days, and refill it with fresh nectar. Use a small brush to clean the openings where the birds drink.
Avoid artificial coloring in nectar, which is not necessary to attract hummers. Scientists believe that even all-natural dyes may be harmful to the birds.
Hummingbird feeders hung from shepherd’s hooks, which are available at garden centers, allow the birds easy access to the feeders.
To attract hummingbirds, plant native and drought-tolerant plants, which require little water and bloom during dry periods.
Source: Texas Parks & Wildlife Department and Arroyo Colorado Audubon Society
Fill a hummingbird feeder halfway — about 1 cup at a time — to prevent the mixture from spoiling or fermenting in the heat.
Empty and clean the feeder every two days, and refill it with fresh nectar. Use a small brush to clean the openings where the birds drink.
Avoid artificial coloring in nectar, which is not necessary to attract hummers. Scientists believe that even all-natural dyes may be harmful to the birds.
Hummingbird feeders hung from shepherd’s hooks, which are available at garden centers, allow the birds easy access to the feeders.
To attract hummingbirds, plant native and drought-tolerant plants, which require little water and bloom during dry periods.
Source: Texas Parks & Wildlife Department and Arroyo Colorado Audubon Society
