This autumn season, the hummingbirds are humming up a storm in Kathleen’s backyard. If you’ve ever dreamed of creating a hummingbird haven in your own yard, you’re in for a treat. We sat down with Kathleen, a long-time Los Gatos Birdwatcher employee and passionate hummingbird enthusiast. Kathleen has been feeding and observing these nectar lovers for years and has great tips to share.
This autumn season, the hummingbirds are humming up a storm in Kathleen’s backyard. If you’ve ever dreamed of creating a hummingbird haven in your own yard, you’re in for a treat. We sat down with Kathleen, a long-time Los Gatos Birdwatcher employee and passionate hummingbird enthusiast. Kathleen has been feeding and observing these nectar lovers for years and has great tips to share.
How Kathleen’s Hummingbird Journey Began
Kathleen’s love for hummingbirds started in 1988, with a large lantana plant right outside her kitchen window. As she and her family sat down for meals, they were enchanted by hummingbirds feeding on the lantana. Fast forward to today, and Kathleen manages multiple feeders, maintaining an ideal hummingbird habitat.
Creating a Hummingbird-Friendly Habitat
Kathleen has a few tried-and-true tips for turning your backyard into a hummingbird paradise:
–Start with a Clean Feeder: “Clean feeders are key!” Kathleen says. She uses a simple white vinegar and hot water solution to keep her feeders sparkling. This helps keep the hummingbirds healthy and happy, especially during peak feeding seasons.
–Fresh Nectar is Essential: She makes her own nectar using a 4:1 ratio of water to white table sugar (no red dye). Freshness is everything; Kathleen recommends refilling and cleaning feeders frequently to keep the nectar appealing.
–Plant Hummingbird Favorites: For a year-round hummingbird habitat, she recommends plants like California fuchsia, Mexican sage, and penstemon. In winter, her jade plants are a big hit, offering color and nectar when natural food sources are limited.
Tips for New Hummingbird Enthusiasts
Kathleen encourages beginners to “start simple.” She suggests beginning with an easy-to-clean feeder and staying on top of fresh nectar. “Be patient, and enjoy the moment when they finally show up,” she adds, noting that even a small yard or balcony can become a hummingbird hotspot with the right care.
Managing Common Hummingbird Challenges
To avoid territorial squabbles, Kathleen spreads her feeders throughout her yard, which helps prevent birds from fighting over one spot. She also ensures bees have their own water source so they don’t invade the feeders.
Peaceful Moments
Watching hummingbirds is more than a hobby for Kathleen; it’s a way to relax. “There’s something incredibly peaceful about it,” she says. “It gives my heart a little rest.” Kathleen’s advice to others? Pour a cup of coffee, settle into a comfy chair, and enjoy some “bird therapy.”
With a few simple steps, you too can bring hummingbird magic into your yard and enjoy the wonders of birding right at home. Feel free to stop by Los Gatos Birdwatcher to see what’s in store. For more hummingbird tips see our tipsheet here [https://losgatosbirdwatcher.com/resources/tip-sheets/]
November 2024
Photo Caption: A leucistic hummingbird at Kathleen’s feeder. This type of hummingbird is a rare but delightful visitor when he shows up.
How Kathleen’s Hummingbird Journey Began
Kathleen’s love for hummingbirds started in 1988, with a large lantana plant right outside her kitchen window. As she and her family sat down for meals, they were enchanted by hummingbirds feeding on the lantana. Fast forward to today, and Kathleen manages multiple feeders, maintaining an ideal hummingbird habitat.
Creating a Hummingbird-Friendly Habitat
Kathleen has a few tried-and-true tips for turning your backyard into a hummingbird paradise:
–Start with a Clean Feeder: “Clean feeders are key!” Kathleen says. She uses a simple white vinegar and hot water solution to keep her feeders sparkling. This helps keep the hummingbirds healthy and happy, especially during peak feeding seasons.
–Fresh Nectar is Essential: She makes her own nectar using a 4:1 ratio of water to white table sugar (no red dye). Freshness is everything; Kathleen recommends refilling and cleaning feeders frequently to keep the nectar appealing.
–Plant Hummingbird Favorites: For a year-round hummingbird habitat, she recommends plants like California fuchsia, Mexican sage, and penstemon. In winter, her jade plants are a big hit, offering color and nectar when natural food sources are limited.
Tips for New Hummingbird Enthusiasts
Kathleen encourages beginners to “start simple.” She suggests beginning with an easy-to-clean feeder and staying on top of fresh nectar. “Be patient, and enjoy the moment when they finally show up,” she adds, noting that even a small yard or balcony can become a hummingbird hotspot with the right care.
Managing Common Hummingbird Challenges
To avoid territorial squabbles, Kathleen spreads her feeders throughout her yard, which helps prevent birds from fighting over one spot. She also ensures bees have their own water source so they don’t invade the feeders.
Peaceful Moments
Watching hummingbirds is more than a hobby for Kathleen; it’s a way to relax. “There’s something incredibly peaceful about it,” she says. “It gives my heart a little rest.” Kathleen’s advice to others? Pour a cup of coffee, settle into a comfy chair, and enjoy some “bird therapy.”
With a few simple steps, you too can bring hummingbird magic into your yard and enjoy the wonders of birding right at home. Feel free to stop by Los Gatos Birdwatcher to see what’s in store. For more hummingbird tips see our tipsheet here https://losgatosbirdwatcher.com/resources/tip-sheets/
November 2024
Photo Caption: A leucistic hummingbird at Kathleen’s feeder. This type of hummingbird is a rare but delightful visitor when he shows up.