Setting Up Your New Hummingbird Feeder? Here’s How Long It’ll Take for Them to Show Up!

Hummingbirds are tiny, delicate creatures that countless people across the globe are fond of. Because of this, many people have brainstormed ways to attract these adorable birds to their yards so that they can enjoy observing them. While some people plant flowers that hummingbirds are partial to, others set up bird baths so that they may cool down. However, another wonderful way to entice hummingbirds to visit your yard is to set up feeders for them. Let’s discuss just how long it will take for hummingbirds to begin visiting your feeder after you’ve set it up and share other fun facts about these animals that you may not have known.

Hummingbirds: A Brief Overview

Currently, about 360 different species of hummingbirds are recognized across the globe. These animals are quite unique, and many people know them for their distinctive beaks and expert flight. However, you may not have known that these birds get their name from the sound their wings make from beating so rapidly. This is not the only part of a hummingbird’s body that moves at a rapid pace. Their hearts beat at a shocking rate of roughly 1,200 beats per minute.

They metabolize whatever food they eat very quickly, and because of this, hummingbirds have to eat almost constantly to maintain their body weight. Some hummingbirds have to eat as often as every three hours in order to maintain their health. Times of migration can be very stressful for these birds, and sleeping can be a challenge as well. Putting out hummingbird feeders is an excellent way to help make the lives of these little animals a little bit easier.

How Long Will It Take Hummingbirds to Come to Your New Feeder?

If you’ve already set up a feeder, you might be wondering how long it will take before you can expect hummingbird visitors to begin showing up. In some cases, people can begin observing hummingbirds at their feeder in as little as a week or two. However, other people might not be as lucky. While some of these birds are more adventurous, many are more cautious. Hummingbirds will typically stick to the reliable food sources that they’re used to before branching out and trying new feeders. In many cases, hummingbirds will only explore different feeding locations if their current ones aren’t meeting their needs.

How to Attract Hummingbirds to Your New Feeder

If a long time has passed by and you still have no hummingbird visitors, there are certain methods you can use to make your feeder more attractive to them. Although feeders are a wonderful tool to entice hummingbirds to come visit your yard, planting flowers they enjoy can also speed up this process. In addition, homeowners may want to consider adding red motifs to their gardens as well. Hummingbirds seem to be attracted to this color, which may encourage them to stop by. Finally, these animals always appreciate the presence of birdbaths and sprinklers on a hot summer day.

Why Hummingbirds Might Be Avoiding Your Feeder

There are a number of reasons why hummingbirds might not want to visit a certain feeder. If your feeder has been left dirty for a long period of time, it can make it unattractive to prospective visitors. According to the National Audubon Society, “In hot weather, the feeder should be emptied and cleaned twice per week. In cooler weather, once per week is enough.” In addition, your feeder may be in an inaccessible place or difficult to see. Try to leave it in an open area, about five or six feet above ground level. If nothing here applies, hummingbirds may just feel unsafe. If you have pets outdoors, such as cats, they may be scaring all the birds away.

Final Thoughts

Hummingbirds are somewhat fickle, and attracting them to your garden might feel like a real challenge in the beginning. However, with enough time and patience, you’ll likely have success in this venture. As long as you use the methods and tips we’ve listed above, you have a great shot at transforming your garden into a hummingbird paradise!

The photo featured at the top of this post is © CharlieFloyd/iStock via Getty Images