When to put up hummingbird feeders?

[J F]

That would explain the weight loss.

 

[whistlepig]

I have done a lot of research on this tonight. From what I have read the commercial hummingbird blends are of no more benifet to the birds than a simple blend of sugar and water. I apologize to those that I may have mislead by my posts and am thankful that there were those wiser than me here to correct me.

 

[J F]

No apology needed whistlepig (great name, by the way).

Feel free to share your thoughts, that's how we all learn.

 

[J F]

I apologize to those that I may have mislead by my posts and am thankful that there were those wiser than me here to correct me.

Nice take. :thumbsup:

 

[newbury]

<snip>that there were those wiser than me here to correct me.

In my case I'm pretty sure wiser wouldn't apply. But I've an 86 year old MIL who lectures me on feeding humminbirds. Some of it stuck.

I too thought that they had made some "special formula", despite what she said, until I researched it.

 

[kco]

We put a feeder up about ten days ago and saw the first hummer April18. We are seeing them regularly now, so time to start putting up more. It was -3C last night but forecast to warm up. The cool nights must be a challenge for the little critters.

 

[The kid]

It's starting to warm up in central Ohio and after a cool few days we should bust into the 70's and boy, am I ready.
So when should we put out the hummingbird feeders? From reading earlier threads folks suggest "early" but when is early and when is too early? I don't want to miss the scouts that are supposedly out searching for habitat. Any advice appreciated.

If it's above freezing at night, you can put one or two out then. My wife saw hummers over a month ago. I put two feeders out on the deck three weeks ago. These are young birds and very timid. Last year I held the feeder in my hand while six fought over it. I start out with about a quarter full feeders untill activity picks up. If you don't already and for those that don't ALLWAYS boil your water your going to use in your feeders. It will last longer before spoiling until you get your regular birds back and you refill more frequent. -kid
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[sixdogs]

Can't seem to get any impressive photos to post but the hummingbirds are all around the house and the wife and MIL are busy keeping the feeders fresh and with food. What a great experience for older people or kids.
We stuck a suction cup window feeder up without expecting much but they really love it. You have to put it at an angle so they can't look inside the house and see movement or they get scared.