Below are some of the most frequently asked questions related to hummingbird gardening.
Q: When should I hang my feeder?
A: View the hummingbird migration map.
Q: What should I put in my feeder? Should I add red dye? What about ants and bees?
A: The best thing we have found is a mixture of 1/2 cup evaporated organic cane sugar, or raw cane sugar to 3-4 cups of hot water. Allow to cool and serve.
Q: How long before the eggs hatch?
A: 2 to 3 weeks. The chicks will leave the nest about 3 weeks later.
Q: Help! I found an injured / orphaned hummer.
A: See this page.
Q: How fast do hummingbirds flap their wings?
A: For small hummers like Ruby-throated, about 55 times per second. Normal flight speed is about 25 MPH.
Q: How long do hummingbirds live?
A: About 4 years on average. The record is 12.
Q: Do hummingbirds migrate on the backs of geese
A: In a word, no.
Q: Did I see a baby hummingbird? It was very small and had stripes/spots/antennae.
A: This is a type of moth that resembles a hummingbird. Looks more like a colorful flying crawfish to us
Q: What is that bug that looks like a hummingbird?
A: This is a type of moth that resembles a hummingbird. Looks more like a colorful flying crawfish to me!
Q: Why do my hummers seem so hateful? All they do is fight.
A: They are extremely territorial. More feeders, out of sight of each other, can help.
Q: Do you have plans for a hummer house?
A: Hummers won't use a house.
Q: When should I take my feeder down?
A: Hummingbirds migrate in response to changing length of daylight, not the availability of food. Taking your feeder down is not required.
Q: Can I tell how many hummers I have by the amount of syrup they consume?
A: Not with wild hummingbirds, because you can't know how much they're eating elsewhere. Instead, just count the most you can see at once, then multiply by four. That's as accurate as any other method.
Q. Wat kind of hummingbirds come to Georgia?
A. Ruby-throated, Rufous, Black-chinned, Magnificent, Allen's, Broad-tailed, Anna's.
