Hummingbirds

Our flock of Broadtail and Rufus hummingbirds number approximately around 50. It is hard to tell for sure as they zip around so fast but on the three feeders they sometimes perch side by side and take turns at the feeding holes. 

We use 4 cups water and 1 cup of sugar. We have 2 gallon jugs that we rotate. We put 12 cups of very hot water in it, add 3 cups of sugar and shake until the sugar is dissolved. There's a 12 cup mark on the side of the jug so we don't have to measure the water every time. We have 3 feeders out and it will keep us busy until September 1!!!!!

We do not use any red food coloring as we understand that is bad for them. Mixed in this flock is Henrietta who is the first to arrive and the last to leave. She has been coming around at least 10 years and we can usually tell her from the rest as she has a slight tremor from a collision around 10 years ago. Carol found her in a snow bank and held her until she revived and warmed her with the warmth of her hand.