Nature Note: Hummingbirds and Trumpet Creepers

Did you know that the hummingbird feeders we put out only supplement their natural food sources? In fact, much of the hummingbird’s diet consists of insects and spiders. Nectar from flowers sometimes high in the trees gives them an energy boost.

The only species of hummingbird that spends the summer here is the Ruby-Throated Hummingbird. Males and females and even immature birds have different plumage, but they are all the same species.

There is a valuable hummingbird plant called Trumpet Creeper that is found throughout Russell Forest! Its tubular design is a PERFECT FIT for the bird’s long beak, and these two actually help each other survive! Watch Marianne’s video below to learn more.

If you put out a hummingbird feeder, be sure to use 4 parts of water to every 1 part of sugar as shown in the video below.