Feed hummingbirds some protein, too

View full sizeThe OregonianHummingbirds' need for fuel is well-known. These tiny birds with helicopter-like wings and a speedy metabolism slurp down nectar at a prodigious rate to maintain their energy.

Sugar-water feeders for hummers are a common sight in Northwest gardens.

But besides needing nectar for carbohydrates, hummingbirds also need protein, especially while feeding youngsters. (In fact, many birds start their young out in the spring on a diet that emphasizes high-protein insects, switching later to seeds.)

So here's a tip with that in mind: In an area near your hummingbird feeder, place a peeled banana or overripe fruit in an old mesh bag to attract fruit flies. The flies will serve as a source of protein for hummers.

For more on feeding hummingbirds, see the tips at this Audubon Society site. One especially important point: Since hummers eat insects, using garden pesticides is a bad idea if you want them to survive and continue to visit your feeders.

-- HGNW staff

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