Imagine transforming your balcony into a lively haven filled with the vibrant buzz of hummingbirds. But how can you turn a simple balcony into a hotspot for these feathered jewels? It’s simpler than you might think!
Hummingbirds have small, weak legs and feet that are primarily used for perching, not walking ¹. They are unable to walk and can only perch or scoot sideways on a branch or feeder.
With the buzz of the city around us, finding a connection to nature can be a grounding experience. Lucky for you, you don’t need a vast garden to attract hummingbirds. Even a small balcony can become a retreat for these amazing birds with the right features in place.
1. Add Perches
Hummingbirds may zip around like little airborne rockets, but they also need their rest. Setting up a perch is the first step to inviting them over. You can easily do this by straightening a wire coat hanger into a straight line and attaching it to your balcony railing.
Just twist one end onto the railing and bend the rest into a horizontal line. This simple structure offers a clear view, which is important for the tiny birds to feel secure.
The presence of a perch on your balcony serves a crucial role. According to enthusiasts, hummingbirds spend about 80% of their time perching ². This activity conserves their energy for feeding, mating, and territorial defense. Your balcony could become the prime spot for these activities!
2. DIY Hummingbird Perch
Here is a step-by-step guide to creating a DIY hummingbird perch:
- Gather Materials: You will need a short dowel (around 7 inches long), floral wire, copper pipe (or thick and sturdy wire), and some faux flowers.
- Prepare the Dowel: Cut the dowel into 7-inch lengths. Then, cut a notch at both ends of the dowel. This will help secure the perch.
- Create the Perch Frame: Bend the copper pipe (or wire) into an arch shape. This will form the frame for the perch. Ensure the arch is sturdy and can support the weight of a hummingbird.
- Attach the Dowel: Use the floral wire to securely attach the dowel to the center of the copper arch. The notches you cut earlier will help the dowel stay in place.
- Add Decorative Elements: Wrap the floral wire around the copper arch and attach the faux flowers. This will not only provide a decorative touch but also attract hummingbirds with the bright colors4.
- Finish with a Red Prism: Add a red prism or faux gem to the top of the perch. The red color helps draw hummingbirds to the perch.
- Hang the Perch: Find a suitable location on your balcony, such as near a feeder or nectar-rich flowers, and hang the perch using additional wire or hooks.
The presence of faux flowers can mimic the allure of a garden, while the red highlights tap into the birds’ natural attraction to the color. Red is often associated with the richest nectar in the wild, so it’s a surefire way to get their attention!
By following these steps, you can create a beautiful and functional hummingbird perch. It can provide a resting spot for these delightful birds and enhance the overall attractiveness of your balcony.
3. Provide a Water Source
Equally essential as a resting spot is ensuring that hummingbirds have access to water. They need to keep hydrated and enjoy a splash to clean their feathers.
You can cater to these needs by adding a misting system, which imitates the fine spray of a forest waterfall, or a small fountain, to your balcony. Solar-powered fountains are a great option because they don’t require any complex wiring and are eco-friendly.
The water source does more than just quench their thirst. It can become yet another attraction point on your balcony. The sound of trickling water is soothing not just for you but also mimics the natural environments hummingbirds are drawn to.
4. Maintain Your Feeder
A hummingbird feeder stocked with fresh nectar is like a neon sign that says, “Open for Business” to these birds. To keep hummingbirds coming back, it’s important to keep the feeder clean and free of any fermentation or mold. Regular cleaning and refreshing of the nectar ensure that the birds stay healthy and disease-free.
A well-maintained feeder also helps prevent unwanted guests like ants and bees. By taking simple steps, such as using an ant moat or bee guards, you can ensure that the nectar is reserved for your tiny, winged guests. Your dedication to upkeep reflects the quality of your balcony oasis!
By adding these elements to your balcony, you can create a hummingbird hotspot that’s sure to bring joy to your urban dwelling. These sparkly bursts of life will appreciate the safe haven you’ve provided.
So, pull up a chair, grab your favorite drink, and enjoy the show as hummingbirds become regular visitors to your personal outdoor space.
Sources:
- https://www.friendsoftualatinrefuge.org/resources/Documents/Online%20Field%20Guide%20Birds.pdf
- https://www.scielo.sa.cr/scielo.php?script=sci_arttext&pid=S0034-77442006000300019
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Davin is a jack-of-all-trades but has professional training and experience in various home and garden subjects. He leans on other experts when needed and edits and fact-checks all articles.