Winter Survival Strategies for Hummingbirds: How to Cope with Extreme Cold and What People Can Do
by Neal Liu
on Nov 10, 2023
In the serene stillness of winter, when the world outside is blanketed in snow, the vibrant charm of hummingbirds still exists. Yet, these tiny, brightly colored birds, renowned for their swift flight, find themselves faced with the daunting challenge of surviving the bitter cold. In this article, we'll take a closer look at the remarkable strategies that hummingbirds employ to thrive in extreme winter conditions and how we, as bird enthusiasts, can play a part in supporting them through the toughest months of the year.
Winter survival strategies for hummingbirds:
-
Dietary Adjustment:
While hummingbirds are often associated with nectar, their diet is more diverse than meets the eye. As winter approaches, nectar becomes scarce, prompting these adaptable birds to incorporate gnats, aphids, small spiders, and other tiny insects into their menu. These protein-rich insects provide a vital energy source. When nectar is in short supply, hummingbirds turn to tree sap as a suitable alternative, offering the necessary sucrose to fuel their high metabolism.
-
Migration:
Many hummingbird species embark on impressive migrations to escape the cold. Shorter daylight hours and dwindling food sources trigger this annual journey. For instance, the Brown Brilliant Hummingbird, a typical migratory species, travels from North and Central America to warmer regions, such as California and the Gulf of Mexico, for the winter.
Daytime flight is the norm during migration, allowing them to better spot nectar, tree sap, insects, and other food sources along the way. Cleverly, they harness the power of the wind to minimize energy consumption, enhancing their chances of reaching their destinations without running out of energy.
-
Torpor:
One of their most remarkable adaptations to cold is a state known as torpor. During torpor, a hummingbird's body temperature drops significantly, heart rate slows, and respiration ceases temporarily. This conservation of energy allows them to survive the cold by expending only a fraction of the energy they would while active. Hummingbirds often enter torpor at night when temperatures plummet.
-
Explore the Birdfy Humming Feeder with Dual Cameras:
Birdfy is proud to introduce our latest innovation, the world's first dual-camera smart hummingbird feeder. Not only does it provide a reliable food source for hummingbirds, but it also captures their stunning beauty in high definition. Learn more and seize an early discount this Black Friday 2023! It's the perfect addition to any occasion, bringing joy to both you and these enchanting birds.
Pressing On Into Winter
As winter descends and the world outside turns frosty, hummingbirds continue to defy the odds and grace our lives with their presence. By understanding their survival strategies and offering our support, we can make a significant difference in ensuring these delightful creatures thrive even in the harshest of seasons. Have you got hummingbirds buzzing around your backyard? Let us know, and expect more from us on how to best welcome and provide for them in your area!
How You Can Help:
-
Maintain Clean Feeders:
To ensure the well-being of hummingbirds, it's essential to keep any bird feeders you own clean. The sugary content of hummingbird food can promote bacterial growth if unchecked, which can be harmful to the birds. Regularly clean your bird feeders every one to two weeks.
-
Prepare Nectar Properly:
Follow a recommended nectar recipe, mixing one part of sugar with four parts of boiled water. Avoid using certain types of sugar or red coloring, which can be harmful to hummingbirds. Properly prepared nectar contributes to their safety and well-being.
-
Prevent Feeder Freezing:
Insulate feeders using materials like wool socks, plumber's tape, or bubble wrap. Consider using specialized feeder heaters or Christmas lights for added warmth. Rotating feeders and positioning them strategically helps ensure a continuous food supply.
To shield the feeder from chilly winds and exposure, position a lamp approximately 10 inches from the top of the feeder, directed downward at a 45-degree angle. You can also consider rotating multiple feeders through the harsher winter months to be better prepared for hummingbirds in your area.
