Hummingbirds at Richland Chambers Lake!

by Julie Teel

These high speed flyers are forecasted to start arriving with a Spring migration around mid-March from South America here in Central Texas.

It is advisable to set up your feeders promptly. Our region is privileged to host a substantial population of Ruby-Throated Hummingbirds, as depicted on the left. These remarkable creatures rely on nectar from blossoms and the additional nourishment provided by the feeders we supply. With a little patience, you can even encourage hand feeding as these tiny creatures learn to recognize you when you are outside! This photo was taken by our very own TC Angie as she handfed her own babies!

Feeder pro-tip: Opt for easy-to-clean feeders and whip up your own nectar (those store-bought red mixes aren't top-notch). Just mix 4 parts warm water with 1 part sugar, let it dissolve, and voilà! Remember to give those feeders a scrub 1-2 times a week, and if the water gets cloudy, it's time for a change!
You can spritz the inside of feeders with plain white vinegar to prevent mold buildup. Just spray, let it sit for moment and then rine well.
Blooming advice: Plant native flowers in vibrant reds, pinks, and oranges to woo those pollinators. Think Red Yucca, Trumpet Vines, Coral Honeysuckle, and more!
Pesticide alert: Hummingbirds are super sensitive to pesticides, so give those chemicals a miss or go the natural route. These tiny avian pals are pollination pros, and we need them to keep our world blooming!