Hummingbirds return to Ohio each spring! Here’s how to get ready for their arrival and attract them to your yard.
Hummingbirds are set to make their grand reappearance in Ohio, and enthusiasts are eagerly awaiting this seasonal spectacle. The festive flash of iridescent feathers and the humming of wings brings joy and beauty to gardens across the Buckeye State. But when can you expect to see these amazing birds, and how can you attract them to your yard? Here’s the scoop.
According to the AccuWeather migration map, Ohio residents can expect the return of hummingbirds in the southern region from April 1 to 15. The northern parts of Ohio will see these feathered friends from April 15 to 30. This timing is critical for those who want to set up attractions early. Hummingbird migrations have already been reported with birds spotted moving northward from their winter habitats in Mexico and Central America.
What’s remarkable is the accuracy of these timelines. Hummingbird Central reported sightings, such as the earliest 2024 sighting in Otway, Ohio, occurring on April 14. Following this, other sightings in the southern part of the state happened between April 15 and 25. This information serves as an excellent guide for those wishing to prepare their gardens for the arrival of these vibrant creatures.
What Species of Hummingbirds Can You Expect in Ohio?
In Ohio, the most common species that residents will encounter is the Ruby-throated hummingbird. Known for its spectacular green feathers and iridescent red throats in males, this species can often be seen flitting between flowers. Female Ruby-throated hummingbirds exhibit a more understated brown-green coloration, which can make them slightly harder to distinguish in the wild. Another species that occasionally migrates into Ohio is the Rufous hummingbird, identifiable by its bright orange coloration.
How to Attract Hummingbirds to Your Yard
To ensure these beautiful birds visit your garden, several strategies can be employed
1. Shelter: Create a welcoming environment by providing large trees and shrubs where hummingbirds can find protection and resting spots.
2. Natural Food Sources: Hummingbirds primarily consume nectar from flowers. It's beneficial to plant native flowering plants, especially red flowers, as they are particularly attractive to these birds. Small insects, including mosquitoes and aphids, also provide essential protein in their diet.
3. Water: Hummingbirds have a fondness for water features. Shallow bird baths, especially those with moving or dripping water, can be irresistible to them.
4. Flowering Plants: Incorporating flowering plants like lantana, zinnias, salvia, and fire bush into your garden can entice hummingbirds. These flowers serve as excellent natural sources of nectar.
5. Hummingbird Feeders: Providing feeders filled with sugar water is an excellent way to supplement their diet. While sugar water serves as a quick energy boost, it is essential to remember that hummingbirds also need to consume insects for protein.
How to Make Homemade Hummingbird Nectar
Creating an effective hummingbird nectar at home is simple. To prepare your own homemade hummingbird nectar, follow these steps
- Mix 4 parts water with 1 part sugar (for example, 1 cup of sugar to 4 cups of water).
- Stir the mixture until the sugar is completely dissolved.
- Store any leftovers in the refrigerator for future use.
Make sure to clean your hummingbird feeders every few days to prevent mold growth, which can be harmful to the birds.
When to Set Out Hummingbird Feeders in Ohio
It’s wise to hang hummingbird feeders outside from mid- to late-April. If you’re keen on attracting these birds early, setting up your feeders ahead of migration is encouraged, particularly as the AccuWeather migration map can help track their movements effectively.
The sight of hummingbirds darting around your garden is enchanting. Create a nourishing and welcoming environment to help these remarkable guests stop by on their journey north.
Arm yourself with knowledge about their migration patterns, provide them with shelter, food, and water, and you’ll soon be rewarded with their dazzling presence. Prepare your yard now and look forward to the exciting return of hummingbirds to Ohio!