Hummingbirds do not consume the fruit of tomato plants. The common sight of these birds fluttering near your vegetable patch is not an indication that your tomatoes are at risk of being eaten. Their presence is motivated entirely by other resources the plant and its surrounding environment provide, not the fleshy, acidic fruit.
The Hummingbird Diet
Hummingbirds maintain the highest mass-specific metabolic rate of any warm-blooded creature, requiring a constant and reliable source of energy. This demand is primarily met by nectar, a carbohydrate-rich sugar solution they extract from flowers. They must feed frequently throughout the day to sustain their rapid wing-flapping and hovering flight. While nectar provides the necessary fuel, it lacks the protein and essential nutrients required for development and maintenance. Therefore, they also consume small arthropods, classifying them as insectivores, to obtain protein, fats, and amino acids crucial for muscle and feather maintenance.
Reasons for Visiting Tomato Plants
The primary reason hummingbirds are drawn to tomato plants is the abundant supply of small pests that often infest the foliage. Tomato plants naturally attract insects like aphids, gnats, and mites, which are perfectly sized protein sources for the birds. A hummingbird may be observed “gleaning” these tiny prey items directly from the leaves and stems. The birds are also attracted to the small, yellow flowers that bloom on tomato vines, which may be mistaken for a nectar source. They may also be searching for moisture or sap collected on the leaves, or using the wires of tomato cages as convenient perching spots to rest.
Managing Hummingbird Interactions in the Garden
Gardeners can easily redirect hummingbird attention away from vegetable plants by providing preferred resources nearby. Planting tubular flowers, especially those in shades of red, orange, or pink, will naturally draw the birds to a designated area. Suitable flowers include petunias, fuchsias, and bee balm, which offer a high yield of nectar. Ensure there is an accessible, separate source of fresh water in the garden, such as a fine misting device or a very shallow birdbath with small stones, which provides hydration and bathing opportunities. It is also beneficial to avoid using broad-spectrum pesticides, as this will eliminate the insect protein source that initially attracted the hummingbirds to your garden.