[rec.birds] don't take down hummer feeders

GC.SUL@forsythe.stanford.edu (Sullivan) (10/12/90)

Looking over rec.birds last night I saw the inevitable question this
time of year about wether or not to remove hummingbird feeders.
Taking down feeders is a common misconception-at least here in
California.  I worked with the Hummingbird rehabilitation team of
Wildlife Rescue in Menlo Park, and their reccomendation was to LEAVE
IT UP ALL WINTER-especially if you have attracted birds to your yard
the rest of the year.  The Annas Hummingbirds are local and will
remain if they have substantial food sources (insects and nectar)
The migratory birds may stop over briefly, but will continue on

Here is more documentation from
"THINGS YOU ALWAYS WANTED TO KNOW ABUT FEEDING HUMMINGBIRDS
-recommendations from the Mile Hi and Ramsey Canyon Preserve"

"Are we stopping our hummingbirds from migrating?  Protein, in the
form of insects is just one of the major components needed by
hummers.  If your area does not have enough of these components (for
example, if it gets too cold for insects) then the hummers will
leave.  We DO NOT encourage the addition of PROTEIN supplements to
the sugar solution as it might discourage the hummers from migrating
when their natural food sources are meager. If you are in an area
that has only one ro two frosts per year, it might be acceptable to
add a supplement for the few days following a freeze.  If the sugar
water freezes, replace it IMMEDIATELY."

Basically, the rule is, if you are going to feed, use solution of
one part sugar to 4 parts water; absolutely no honey in feeders; red
food color not necessary or recommended.  Keep feeders CLEAN, and
out of the sun.  And, don't let them hang empty-keep up with it and
have a neighbor come over if you are away.

Back to Mile HI recommendations, "Due to the pervasive use of
pestcides and habitat destruction (continuing today) we feel we own
it to our wildlife to feed and care for them as wild and free
creatures.

Also, be wary of adding any protein powders or supplements-then can
spoil very quickly.

K. Sullivan
formerly Hummingbird Gardens Nursery