One bird who I never thought I would get nice photos of perched and away from feeders was the Ruby-throated Hummingbird. They are so fast and tend to disappear into the trees when they are done feeding. Sure, it was fairly easy to get them in a photo that had a feeder in it, but nothing about that looks natural at all. My secret is to use fallen branches around my bird feeders.
In 2011, I had the Hummingbird feeder hanging from a branch that was attached to my poles. It provided the perfect perch – and the perfect photo opportunities.
Hummingbird feeder set up 2011
Later in the summer, the Hummingbirds were so busy feeding that they did not mind me standing nearby and snapping away while they got ready to feed. You could never guess by these photos that the feeder is so close.
Hummingbird from 2011
Hummingbird from 2011
This year, I have the feeder in a different location, closer to my deck so that it is always in the shade. I got the bright idea to attach a branch to the end of these poles when I started to work outside more. I took a photo of the set-up this morning with my iPhone. Just as I was about to take the photo, while standing within feet of the feeder, one of my guests flew in (look toward the right on the branches).
Hummingbird feeder set up 2013
Now I can get closer – and the feeder is also closer to a tree so that the Hummingbirds can fly for cover if needed. They typically perch on the open branch before feeding and go to the tree after.
Ruby-throated Hummingbird male
I am extremely satisfied with the results of this set up! These are only two of the successful photos I was able to get yesterday as the sun was going down. The light was a bit dark, but it was even and the closeness helped me get so many great photos!
Ruby-throated Hummingbird female
Ruby-throated Hummingbird female
I also get photos of the Hummingbirds in my closest tree since it is right next to my upper deck, but not everyone has this same convenience!
Ruby-throated Hummingbird in the tree next to my deck
Comparing the above photo – can you even tell that the first two were taken on a lone branch rather than on an actual tree??
Tips on feeding Hummingbirds
There is no need to buy a pre-made Hummingbird mixture – all you need are two very cheap ingredients: water and sugar. Use 1-part sugar for every 4-parts of water; for example, I make two cups of water and mix in 1/2 cup of sugar (or a 1/4 cup of sugar for every cup of water).
Here is how I prepare it:
- Bring the water to a boil and remove from the heat.
- Immediately add the sugar and mix until it is completely dissolved.
- Cover and allow to cool
- Add to the Hummingbird feeders in small portions and put the rest away in the refrigerator. I store mine in a water bottle.
- Replace the mixture in the feeders every one to three days – depending on the temperature (if it is 90+ degrees, I replace every day).
Do not use artificial sweeteners, honey, Jell-O or brown sugar – stick with table sugar. There is no need to use food coloring – your feeder should be bright enough to attract your guest. Try not to place in the direct sun so that the mixture lasts longer. Remember that sugar water will get moldy if it sits for too long – even the batch in your refrigerator should last no more than two weeks.
Want more tips? Check out Allaboutbirds.org.