Think hummingbirds only sip on sugar water? While these tiny dynamos certainly love their nectar, their diet is more diverse than you might imagine.
Recent research even suggests that relying solely on sugar water might not be the healthiest option for these feathered friends. Studies have shown that the microbes in sugar water feeders differ from those found in natural flower nectar that can impact hummingbird health.1
That’s why it’s important to go beyond the basics and offer a variety of snacks that provide essential nutrients for their high-energy lifestyle.
Here are unexpected foods that you can offer to supplement your hummingbird’s diet.
1. Natural Nectar from Flowers
- Primary Food Source: Nectar is the cornerstone of a hummingbird’s diet, providing the essential carbohydrates they need for energy.
- Benefits of Native Plants: Planting native flowers specifically tailored to attract hummingbirds ensures that the nectar is perfectly suited to their needs in terms of sugar concentration and composition.
- Ecological Impact: By planting native species, you support the entire ecosystem, as these flowers also attract other pollinators like bees and butterflies, contributing to a healthy and thriving environment.
- Examples: Some excellent native plant choices for hummingbirds include bee balm (Monarda), salvia (Salvia), trumpet vine (Campsis radicans), and columbine (Aquilegia). Research which species are native to your area for the best results.
2. Fruit
- Supplemental Energy: While not a primary food source, ripe or overripe fruits can offer hummingbirds an additional source of sugar, supplementing their nectar intake.
- Attracts Insects: The sweet juices from fruits also attract small insects like fruit flies and gnats. Hummingbirds are opportunistic feeders and will happily consume these insects for a protein boost.
- Presentation: Offer small pieces of soft, overripe fruits like oranges, bananas, watermelon rinds, or berries on a platform feeder or skewered on a branch.
- Caution: Avoid offering fruits that have been treated with pesticides, as this can harm hummingbirds.
3. Insects
- Essential Protein Source: Insects are a critical component of a hummingbird’s diet, providing the protein they need for muscle development, feather growth, and overall health.
- Natural Predators: Hummingbirds are skilled aerial hunters, adept at catching small flying insects like gnats, mosquitoes, fruit flies, and small spiders. They may also glean insects from leaves and flowers.
- Nutritional Value: Insects provide not only protein but also essential fats, vitamins, and minerals that are not found in nectar.
- Pesticide-Free Environment: Avoid using pesticides or insecticides in your garden, as these chemicals can harm or even kill hummingbirds and their insect prey.
- Attracting Insects: You can encourage a healthy insect population by planting native flowers and allowing some areas of your garden to grow a little wild.
4. Tree Sap
- Supplemental Nutrition: Tree sap is not a primary food source for hummingbirds, but they may occasionally visit sap wells or areas where sap is oozing from trees.
- Sugar and Mineral Source: Sap contains sugars and trace minerals that can supplement a hummingbird’s diet.
- Opportunistic Feeding: Hummingbirds are opportunistic feeders and will take advantage of available food sources, including tree sap.
- Observation: If you notice hummingbirds visiting sap-producing trees in your yard, you can leave these areas undisturbed to allow them access to this supplemental food source.
- Caution: Avoid intentionally creating wounds on trees to attract hummingbirds to sap, as this can harm the tree.
5. Store-Bought Nectar
- Convenience: Store-bought nectar offers a convenient option for those who don’t have the time or resources to make their own.
- Variety: Many brands offer different formulations, including those with added vitamins or minerals.
- Ready-to-Use: These nectars come pre-mixed and ready to pour into your feeder.
- Preservatives: Some store-bought nectars contain preservatives to extend their shelf life. Use specialized hummingbird nectar mixes that are free of dyes and unnecessary additives. These can be a good alternative to homemade nectar if you’re short on time.
So, step beyond the sugar bowl and create a diverse and enticing spread for your hummingbird friends.
Source:
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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.