(by Grace McCulloch)

Celebrate the return of hummingbirds by putting out your hummingbird feeder! While nectar-rich plants are their most important food source, feeders can provide extra fuel for the hummers – and joy for us.

Getting Started: There are a few essentials to keep in mind when feeding hummingbirds. These birds are attracted to red, an adaptation that helps them find flowers. Pick a feeder with bright red at the base or plant native red and tubular flowers nearby to draw them in.

Place your feeder in an area that will be easy for you to clean and refill, but high enough to be out of reach from cats and other predators. Hang your feeder either very close to windows or far away to reduce the risk of window collisions.

Use Refined White Sugar Only: Provide a sugar-water solution made with one part refined white sugar to four parts water. Boil the mixture until the sugar is dissolved, then let it cool before providing the mixture to your hummingbirds. You can store extra solution in your refrigerator, just return it to room temperature before serving.

Although not ideal for humans, refined white sugar is the best option for hummingbirds. Avoid raw sugars and artificial sweeteners, and never add honey to your feeder, which can promote fungal growth. Skip the red food coloring. It is not necessary and can be harmful.

Clean Your Feeder Regularly: Keep your hummingbirds healthy by cleaning your feeder regularly, replacing the solution every two to three days and more often in hot weather. There are several effective ways to clean a feeder, including using hot tap water with unscented dish soap, a dilute vinegar solution, or diluted hydrogen peroxide. Whatever method you choose, be sure the feeder is completely dry before refilling it. This helps prevent any residual cleaning solution from mixing with the nectar.

Know Your Hummingbirds: New Hampshire is home to only one regular species of hummingbird: the Ruby-throated Hummingbird. Despite their name, only the adult males have a red throat. You may also spot hummingbird moths, insects that look like “baby hummingbirds” but are actually moths.

Finally, sit back and enjoy the entertainment. These tiny birds have a ferocious appetite, feeding every 10 to 15 minutes. Leave your feeders up as long as there are hummingbirds around. Don’t worry – keeping feeders out won’t prevent migration. In fact, it helps them fuel up for their long journey.

Adult hummingbirds will leave in August, flying towards wintering grounds in Central America, while juveniles linger into September. Enjoy these “flying jewels” while they’re here!