Hummingbirds flock to feeders during high winds

Photo by J.J. Meyer

Santa Ana winds are predicted for Southern California over the next few days. Hummingbirds seem to flock to feeders when these hot, dry winds blow through.  So please keep your feeders out for our non-migratory hummers that stay with us year-round.

Clean and replenish nectar every 3-5 days even when the temperatures are cool. Use a 1:4 ratio of water to sugar. (ie. 1/4 cup sugar to 1 cup water) Boil water for about 3 minutes to help purify, then pour into a Pyrex measuring cup.  Some water boils away, so it's best to measure after boiling. Stir in the sugar and allow to cool.  

Clean your hummingbird feeders with white vinegar and hot water. Soap can leave a residue, which may make your hummer friends reject it.

You can make nectar ahead and store in a glass container for up to two weeks in the refrigerator.
Happy birding!
J.J.