Creating a Relaxing Space for Hummingbirds
Hummingbirds, with their delicate nature, are a delightful sight in any yard. However, attracting them to your balcony space can be a challenge. One effective way to make them feel more comfortable is by providing them with peaceful perches to rest on.
"Hovering in mid-air while feeding requires a lot of energy for hummingbirds," explained Kelsey Waddell. "Having perches nearby allows them to conserve energy by perching and resting between feeding sessions, rather than constantly hovering. They also need time to rest and digest the copious amounts of food they consume to sustain their high-energy activities."
Simply adding perches is not sufficient to attract hummingbirds to your space. It's crucial to consider their physiological needs as well. For instance, your balcony railing may be too thick for them to comfortably rest on. Therefore, a hummingbird-friendly perch provides them with more stability as they can grip it with their tiny feet.
Creating a welcoming environment for hummingbirds involves not only providing perches but also ensuring that these perches are suitable for their needs. By making these small adjustments, you can transform your balcony into a relaxing oasis for these charming birds to enjoy.
Creating a welcoming space for hummingbirds on your balcony can be a delightful experience. One simple way to achieve this is by installing a hummingbird perch. These tiny creatures don't mind the height, so even if your balcony is elevated, they will still visit the perch.
If you prefer a DIY approach or are on a tight budget, you can easily make a hummingbird perch using a spare wire hanger. Straighten the hanger and attach one end to your balcony railing, then bend the other end horizontally to provide a resting spot for the birds.
For the best results, position the perch in a way that allows the hummingbirds to have a view while they rest, as they spend a significant portion of their day doing so. Additionally, consider placing some flowers or flowered tree branches near the perch to attract the hummingbirds to your balcony.
Hummingbird enthusiasts understand that providing a resting place is key to attracting these tiny birds. Placing a hummingbird perch in a shaded area near a feeder, or opting for a feeder that already has a perch, can increase the chances of bird sightings. It's important to avoid common mistakes when setting up your hummingbird feeder, such as placing it too low. Having the perch too close to the ground, especially in a balcony setting where there may be prowling house cats, can pose a danger to the birds.
When choosing or creating a perch, aim for a diameter of ¼ to ½ inch to ensure the hummingbirds can easily grip it with their tiny feet. While there is no scientific consensus on whether hummingbirds prefer stationary perches or swinging ones, anecdotal evidence suggests they enjoy both types. Incorporating the color red into the perch can also attract hummingbirds, as they are drawn to this vibrant hue.
Attracting hummingbirds to your balcony requires some finesse. By making simple adjustments and showing patience, you can create a welcoming space for these delightful birds. With a bit of effort, your balcony can transform into a hummingbird sanctuary.
