Last Updated on January 11, 2023 by Cristina
Wondering how to attract hummingbirds in Michigan? Check out this article to find out!
Is there a person who doesn’t get excited when they come face to face with a little hummer? We haven’t met anyone like that yet! Moreover, we consider all those who have the opportunity to enjoy watching these creatures humming around their garden incredibly lucky. If you want to be one of them, check out this article to learn how to attract hummingbirds in Michigan.
Are Hummingbirds Frequent Visitors To Michigan?
Before we show you how to attract hummingbirds in Michigan, it might be a good idea to talk about whether it is worth the effort. Namely, why bother if only a few hummingbirds visit this country each year? So let’s get into the details, shall we?
All Michiganders are extremely lucky to have a very long hummingbird season and to be visited by not just a few but at least 6 different species of small hummingbirds. Some neighboring countries cannot boast of such a diversity of species, but this is not the case in this, as many call it, the Wolverine State. We mustn’t forget to mention that Michigan belongs to the wintering grounds of many northern species.
If you are not a permanent resident and want to take a field trip and picnic while observing these birds, visit the Upper Peninsula’s top birding spots, such as Whitefish Point Bird Observatory and Seney Wildlife Refuge. Trust us, you won’t be disappointed.
Now let’s list the Michigan hummingbird species that you will definitely be able to see:
- Ruby-throated hummingbird
- Rufous hummingbird
- Anna’s hummingbird
- White-eared hummingbird
- Broad-billed hummingbird
- Mexican violetear
Unfortunately, due to the constant threat of predators, unsanitary bird feeders, inevitable collision with windows, as well as habitat loss, and climate change, their numbers are decreasing year by year. You can check out this article to learn more about population trends among North American hummingbirds.
When Are Hummingbirds In Michigan?
Finally, we have one more thing to note before we start talking about how to attract hummingbirds in Michigan. We have to tell you when you can actually expect their arrival. Just try to imagine putting out the feeders at the wrong time. Who can you feed? Probably every living thing except hummingbirds.
As for the time of arrival, we cannot give you an exact date, but these birds usually arrive in mid-April. It is known that not every bird arrives on the same day and at the same time, which is easy to understand because, for example, those who settled in southern Mexico may arrive at a different time than those who started their journey from Panama. Also, the weather and availability of food sources have a very large impact on their travel and landing in Michigan yards and gardens.
Now, let’s move on to the main part. We can’t wait to explain how to attract hummingbirds in Michigan.
How To Attract Hummingbirds In Michigan
#1: Plant A Hummingbird-Friendly Yard
Choosing the perfect flowers and plants that will fulfill all the criteria is difficult. However, the most important thing is to plant hummingbird flowers that are appropriate for your hardiness zones. Accordingly, a yard in Michigan differs greatly from a yard in the Andes, Ohio, or Alaska.
Furthermore, since these creatures don’t rely so much on their sense of smell, it is necessary to choose flowers that will appeal to their color vision. You won’t go wrong if you choose those with a predominance of red, orange, and pink as they suggest a good source of nectar.
Perennials
When planting, know that hummingbirds in Michigan love tubular flowers, so feel free to opt for Trumpet Vine (commonly referred to as “hummingbird vine”), Bee Balm, Lobelia, Rose of Sharon, Dense Blazing Star, and Penstemon.
Annuals
If you are wondering how to attract hummingbirds in Michigan using annuals, try a hanging basket of flowers that these tiny creatures simply can’t resist. You are guaranteed not to be denied a visit if you plant Impatiens, Flowering Tobacco, Petunias, Phlox, Orange Jewelweeds, or Sage.
That’s what we have to recommend you regarding hummingbird flowers in Michigan, and now let’s move on.
#2: Hang the Feeders
Another answer to the question of how to attract hummingbirds in Michigan involves setting up feeders. This is also one of the methods that will never fail, of course, given that you follow all the recommendations, clean, disinfect and add new amounts of nectar regularly.
Our strong recommendation is to hang your hummingbird feeder before the official start of hummingbird season to make sure you catch the first one to arrive in this country. It is best to do so in early April, anticipating their staggered arrival from mid-April all the way to May.
#3: Support The Insect Population
As you might guess, nectar alone isn’t enough to fuel their bodies. It is true that it instantly gives them a burst of energy, but it isn’t enough to keep their bones and feathers healthy. Their tiny bodies need protein, and they get it from various soft-bodied insects.
However, insects, and therefore hummingbirds, will not thrive on your property unless you help them. Therefore, eliminate all pesticides, plant insect-pollinated flowers as well as hummingbird-pollinated plants, and leave ripe and rotten fruit on the ground near feeders.
#4: Provide A Water Source
Hummingbirds won’t really drink the water, but they will use it for grooming and bathing. Be sure to put a few rocks in your bird bath to prevent these birds from drowning.
To Conclude – How To Attract Hummingbirds n Michigan
If you want to enjoy a daily visit from these smallest birds in the world, all you need to do is get feeders, plant native, and non-invasive plants and provide them with a constant source of water. With a little effort, you can be rewarded many times over!
Do you have your own tips and tricks on how to attract hummingbirds in Michigan? Tell us more below.
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