The energetic Ruby-throated Hummingbird is the most common species to grace North Carolina gardens, appearing each spring after an incredible migration. These birds possess a remarkable metabolism, requiring constant access to high-energy fuel sources like nectar and small insects. Attracting these flyers involves implementing specific strategies that provide reliable sustenance throughout their time in the state. By focusing on both natural flowering plants and supplemental feeding methods, you can create a welcoming habitat.
Understanding the North Carolina Hummingbird Season
The seasonal timing of the Ruby-throated Hummingbird’s presence in North Carolina is the first consideration for successful attraction. These migrants typically begin arriving in the southern parts of the state in late March, with the majority of birds becoming prevalent across the region by mid-April. This spring arrival signifies the start of their breeding season. Hummingbirds remain throughout the summer months before beginning their long journey south. The fall migration officially begins in late August, with a noticeable surge in feeding activity as birds double their body weight; while many depart by September, it is beneficial to keep food sources available into October, as late-migrating individuals continue to pass through the area.
Horticultural Hues: Selecting Native NC Plants
Planting native flowers provides the most sustainable and natural food source, offering the specific nectar composition hummingbirds evolved to seek. These birds are strongly attracted to red and orange tubular flowers, which are perfectly shaped for their long, thin bills and tongues. Providing a diverse, layered habitat ensures a steady supply of nectar throughout the season.
A prime choice is the native Trumpet Honeysuckle (Lonicera sempervirens), a non-aggressive vine that produces clusters of scarlet-orange tubular blooms from spring into summer. Its large, bright flowers are extremely visible to passing hummingbirds and deliver high-quality nectar. Similarly, the striking Cardinal Flower (Lobelia cardinalis) is a magnet, featuring tall spikes of intense red flowers that thrive in moist, partly shaded areas, offering a rich nectar source in the late summer.
For a more sun-tolerant option, Bee Balm (Monarda didyma) provides spiky, red or pink flower heads that are popular with hummingbirds and bloom throughout the mid-summer. Even a shade-loving native like Orange Jewelweed (Impatiens capensis) can be beneficial, providing small, bright orange flowers that attract birds in late summer and early fall. Maintaining natural areas by avoiding broad-spectrum pesticides is also important, as hummingbirds rely on small insects and spiders for protein during the nesting period.
Feeder Setup and Safety
Supplemental feeders offer an easy way to provide energy, but they require strict maintenance to remain safe for the birds. The correct sugar-water solution consists of four parts water to one part refined white granulated sugar. This 4:1 concentration closely mimics the sucrose content found in natural flower nectar, providing the necessary caloric density.
Use only white granulated sugar and tap water. Avoid all other sweeteners like honey, brown sugar, or artificial substitutes, which can be difficult for the birds to digest or promote harmful fungal growth. Red food coloring should never be added to the solution, as the chemicals offer no benefit and can be potentially harmful; the feeder itself provides enough visual attraction.
Feeder placement should be in a location that is easily visible yet offers nearby perches or cover, such as a large tree or shrub. Cleaning is the most important safety element, as the sugar solution ferments quickly, especially in the North Carolina heat. Feeders must be emptied and thoroughly cleaned every two to three days when temperatures are consistently above 80 degrees Fahrenheit, using hot water and a bottle brush to scrub all surfaces. Using an ant moat—a small cup of plain water above the feeder—can prevent crawling insects from contaminating the nectar.