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The Hummingbirds are here!


Well hello there, my its been a long, long time...

Because of the scorching heat in Katy, Texas, 105 degrees today, we hung up a hummingbird feeder.  Our Hamelias usually provide enough nectar to suffice the nesting hummingbirds in our neighborhood but, with the drought and heat they wilt before noon even if I water them. 



Nectar recipe is 4 to 1.  One part sugar to four parts water.  Stir 1/4 cup sugar into a warm 1 cup of water until it dissolves.  I added ice cubes to cool it down just because of the heat outside.  The hummers will be drawn visually to the red flowers so, there is no need to add red food coloring at all.  Food coloring is not good for them to injest.  Not good for children and not good for hummers.

The two hummers visiting our feeder spent an awful lot of time trying to push each other out of the way.  I wish I could tell them please don't fight there is plenty for everyone to enjoy.  I rinse and refill the feeder every two days.  The birds have nests in my neighbors oak tree and return every August.  They are a joy to watch.   There is a hummingbird festival in Rockport, Texas in September. http://www.rockporthummingbird.com/index.php/2010-celebration-info
I have attended in the past.  You can hear experienced speakers, take tours on airconditioned buses and visit the beautiful gardens that house and feed the visiting hummers as they migrate south.   Don't forget the battery charger for your camera you will need it.  There are also vendors there with beautiful things for sale.
Happy humming...

Comments

Pen Pen said…
Gorgeous pics mom!!

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