I'm wanting to put out some humminbird feeders here in central Kansas. I know there are hummers in town that are there for at least fairly lengthy times, and have seen them "pass through" out here in the country. I would like to give them a reason to stay a bit longer, but am unsure of what is the best spot to hang a feeder or two. Shade?...Sunlight?...with or without nearby shrubbery or protection? I lived in Colorado when I was younger so have been around them alot, but you could hang a feeder anywhere out there and they'd come. Here they're so much more scarce that I'd like to give them the most enviting environment I can. This is such an elementary question that I feel silly asking...maybe somone could even direct me to an old thread that covers it. Thank you all.
Willow
beginner question
Hi, Willoww. If you ask a group like us you will get a variety of answers to your question!
My best guess for you is to hang your feeders where there is nearby 'cover' for the HBs (like shrubs or leafy trees) and come distance away from your regular bird feeders. Some find it easier to keep the feeders clean if they are in a shady area. My feeders are mostly in sun, but I am here every day to change the nectar, etc.
Having said that, my feeder that hangs on the front window (by suction cups) in the shade gets loads of business. And there is a crabapple tree and a couple of prunus trees right there that they love to play in.
I will suggest that you get the saucer type feeders with the ant moats (did you already get the low-down on feeders on another thread? I seem to recall that) if you haven't already purchased a feeder.
The other 'trick' that some HB fanciers try is to put red ribbons or a red flag out to catch the HBs attention as they fly over. And maybe some nice red flowers (you can read more about what kind of various threads here).
I googled and found this article about Kansas Hummingbirds: http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/242673/hummingbirds_in_kansas.html?cat=11
From the looks of it, Kansas has recorded up to ten species of hummingbirds, so you should have some fun with your feeders!
It looks like in Kansas it's a good idea to put your feeders out from late April until September. If you put your feeder out now you may catch the attention of one of the little birds passing over. Next year she may decide to return in the springtime and nest.
Good luck. t.
Tabasco, thank you for the wonderful information and the link. I'm excited to see that there are so many different species in Kansas, and that it appears some do stay and nest. I do already have a feeder, and I don't see a moat, so I think I'll hang it and then look for a saucer type to put in a different place. I have a big yard so it won't hurt to put up several. You've been a great help, and I will go ahead and read through some of the threads on what to plant so I can get my plans made for next year. I don't have much red at this point...lots of pinks so maybe that helps...but I know I can fix that with thinking ahead for next summer.
willow
I know you can't grow porterweed up in Kansas but I just wanted to say I have a pair of hummingbirds and they love it. And it's PURPLE! And the only other flower I've seen one on is my Cat's Whiskers and it's also purple. I suspect they've been on my firebush and salvia "Black and Blue" as well as I've seen them flying out from that direction when I pull in. All I'm saying is let experience be your guide. I have red sage planted right in front of the porterweed and they don't even seem to notice.
I think it's also helpful if you have big trees near your nectar source. When I come out the front door the hummingbird flies off the porterweed and perches on the lower limb of an oak tree just a few feet away. The other hummingbird seems to live in the oak tree on the other side of the house. Sometimes, they chase each other. I guess it's just important to satisfy all the needs of your hummers - food and shelter. Oh, and I hear they make their nests using spider webs so I suppose you would need some of them around. I don't use pesticide due to my butterflies so I've gotten lots of spiders (some of which have to be relocated away from caterpillars). I have my theories about hummers using Spanish Moss in their nests - seems like it would be soft.
Melanie (butterfly, not hummingbird expert) : )
willow, It's kind of late in the season to plant red flowers, but you could try the red lawn ornament/flag trick. A little gaudy, but some say it works, and I always do it in the springtime. (-:
We will want to hear about your successes!
I have a what appears to be an Anna's female or youngster that seems a little on the rough side in appearance. She stays for longer periodes on the feeder than most. Any suggestions or ideas?
Maybe find some annuals marked down to put near by.
The gardens near the feeder are full of petunias, fuschias, honeysuckle and a trumpet vines. Thankyou though nanny_56
Maybe she is in a 'molt' stage?
I don't know much about Annas and their behavior, but you could post on the Hummingbird Garden forum and maybe get some recommendations.
Here's the link: http://davesgarden.com/community/forums/f/bbb/all/