Fly free, little one!
This hummingbird was released after spending a few weeks growing up at Tucson Wildlife Center. Found as an orphan, she was brought to our wildlife hospital and could not be returned to her nest. She was released once she learned to fly and feed herself.
With temperatures rising, we want to remind you how important it is to clean your hummingbird feeders EVERY DAY! It could be the difference between life and death for the beautiful hummingbirds you enjoy watching in your yard. Year-round, but especially during our scorching summers, mold and bacteria can quickly grow in the nectar you put in your hummingbird feeders. Even a small amount of this nectar can kill a hummingbird. Please, scrub out each part of your feeder DAILY with hot, soapy water, rinse thoroughly and fill with fresh nectar.
Also, please do not use red-dye nectar. Instead, opt to make your own nectar by mixing 1-part white sugar and 4-parts water, or purchase dye-free mixes that mimic a hummingbird’s natural plant food. Bring this mixture to a boil and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Better yet, eliminate feeders altogether and plant hummingbird-friendly native plants in your yard or in 5-gallon pots around your home or apartment!
