Hummingbirds are the smallest birds in the world, ranging in size from two to five inches.

They are the only birds that are able to hover and fly backwards - beating their wings up to 80 times a second.

Hummingbirds consume half their weight each day feeding on flower nectar for energy, and insects, like flies and spiders, for protein.

There are about twenty species of hummingbirds in North America ranging from Alaska to Florida.

The 3 inch long ruby-throated hummingbird spends April to October in the eastern U.S.

In September it starts a 2000-mile migration to Mexico and Central America flying non-stop across the Gulf of Mexico.

Hummingbird nests are made out of lichens and spider webs, and the size of a small coin.

The female usually lays two pea-sized white eggs and incubates them for about two to three weeks.

Fledgling hummingbirds stay in the nest for 14 to 18 days.

Attracting Hummingbirds

	You can attract hummingbirds by planting native nectar plants. Plants with red, tubular shaped flowers work best. Call your local Audubon Society, state wildlife department, county extension agency or local native plant society for a list of native plants for hummingbirds in your area.
	Many native plants that attract hummingbirds also attract butterflies!
	You may supplement natural plant nectar with fruit or nectar feeders.
	Hummingbirds are primarily insect eaters. Try hanging a fruit feeder with a banana above flowers were you see hummingbirds to attract fruit flies.
	You may also offer a nectar feeder but only if you are committed to following a rigorous maintenance and cleaning routine.
	Artificial nectar can spoil fast and cause illness or death for hummingbirds.
	Nectar must be changed and feeders cleaned every three days when the temperature is over 80°, and every two days when the temperature is over 90°.
	Hang nectar feeders above native plants and where you can see and enjoy them.
	Be sure to place decals on windows to prevent collisions.

Hummingbird Nectar Recipe
1-cup cane sugar*
4 cups water
DO NOT USE HONEY, ARTIFICIAL SWEETENERS, BROWN SUGAR, OR JELL-O!
DO NOT ADD FOOD COLORING OR DYES!
*Help save the Florida Everglades; buy Save our Everglades Sugar at www.saveoureverglades.org/apura/default.htm

Directions:

	Dissolve 1-cup cane sugar in 4 cups water.
	Microwave or heat until boiling.
	Let cool to room temperature before filling feeders.
	Store in refrigerator for one week.

For more information about hummingbirds go to www.hummingbirds.net/about.html

For information about caring for injured hummingbirds go to www.hummingbird.org/injured.htm