To attract western hummingbirds, such as Rufous or Allen's Hummingbirds, to your feeder in Bucks County, consider the following strategies:
Use the Right Feeder: Choose feeders that are easy to clean and fill with a sugar-water solution.
The recommended ratio is 1 part sugar to 4 parts water, but during migration, you can increase the sugar concentration to 1 part sugar to 3 parts water to provide extra energy for the birds
Placement: Position your feeders near vibrant, nectar-rich flowers, particularly those that bloom from spring to fall.
Plant Native Flowers: Consider planting native species that are known to attract hummingbirds, such as bee balm, trumpet honeysuckle, and cardinal flower.
Keep Feeders Clean: Regularly clean your feeders to prevent mold and spoilage, ideally every few days, especially in warmer weather. This ensures that the nectar remains fresh and appealing to the birds.
Provide Shelter: Ensure there are trees or shrubs nearby where hummingbirds can rest and take cover from predators. This will create a safe environment for them to visit your feeders.