How to Feed Insects to Hummingbirds: A Complete Guide

Hummingbirds are nature’s tiny marvels, dazzling us with their jewel-like feathers and lightning-fast wingbeats. But did you know that nectar isn’t their only source of energy? These fascinating birds rely on protein-packed insects to fuel their high-speed lives. By incorporating insects into their diet, you can support their health and mimic the way they naturally thrive in the wild.

In this post, we’ll show you a simple and effective way to provide insects for hummingbirds right in your backyard. Whether you’re a seasoned bird enthusiast or a curious beginner, creating a haven for these vibrant flyers has never been easier—or more rewarding!

Why Do Hummingbirds Eat Insects?

Hummingbirds require protein, fats, and other nutrients that nectar alone cannot provide. Insects are an excellent source of these essential elements. Here are a few reasons why insects are important for hummingbirds:

• Protein Source: Insects help hummingbirds build muscle and support their fast metabolism.
• Energy Needs: The fats in insects provide long-lasting energy needed for their high activity levels.
• Chick Rearing: Protein from insects is essential for feeding their chicks and ensuring proper growth.
• Overall Health: The variety of nutrients found in insects contributes to a stronger immune system and better resilience.

Types of Insects Hummingbirds Eat

Hummingbirds consume a variety of small insects and arthropods. Below is a table highlighting some of the most common types:

How to Provide Insects to Hummingbirds?

To feed insects to hummingbirds, you can place fruit like bananas or oranges in a dish to attract small bugs they eat naturally. Hummingbirds need protein from insects like gnats and fruit flies, so creating a bug-friendly area near their feeders can help.

Feeding insects to hummingbirds can be done in a few simple steps. Below are practical ways to get started:

1. Attract Natural Insects

Encouraging a natural supply of insects is one of the easiest ways to support hummingbirds.

• Plant Native Flowers: Native plants attract insects that hummingbirds feed on, including bees and small flies. Bright, tubular flowers are particularly effective.
• Avoid Pesticides: Chemical pesticides can reduce insect populations and harm birds. Opt for organic gardening methods.
• Create Water Features: A shallow pond, birdbath, or dripping water feature can attract insects like flies and gnats while also providing hydration for other wildlife.

2. Use Fruit Traps

Overripe fruits attract small flies, which are a favorite food for hummingbirds. Here’s how to make a fruit trap:

• Cut pieces of overripe fruit such as bananas, peaches, or apples.
• Place the fruit in a breathable container, like a mesh bag or shallow dish with holes.
• Hang the trap near flowering plants or existing feeders. Ensure the area is shaded to keep the fruit from spoiling too quickly.
• Replace the fruit every 1-2 days to maintain its effectiveness.

3. Provide Live Insects

Purchasing live insects can be an effective way to offer additional nutrition to hummingbirds.

• Fruit Flies: These are small enough for hummingbirds to handle and can be easily cultured at home or bought from pet stores.
• Mealworms: Although larger, mealworms can be softened by soaking them in water. Use sparingly.
• Ant Farms: Set up a controlled ant farm near feeders. Ensure ants do not overrun other feeding stations.

Tip: Always choose small, soft-bodied insects to prevent choking hazards and ensure easy digestion.

4. Install Hummingbird Insect Feeders

Specialized feeders designed to attract insects can be a helpful tool. These feeders often include:

• Sticky Surfaces: To attract small flies and gnats. Avoid using toxic adhesives.
• Fruit Compartments: Encouraging insect activity and drawing hummingbirds closer.
• Perches: Allowing hummingbirds to rest while they pick off insects.

DIY Insect Feeders for Hummingbirds

Creating an insect feeder at home is simple and cost-effective. Follow these steps:

Materials Needed:

• A shallow dish or bowl
• Overripe fruit
• Mesh or screen material
• String or wire for hanging

Instructions:

1. Place the overripe fruit in the shallow dish.
2. Cover the dish with mesh to prevent larger animals from accessing it while still allowing insects to enter.
3. Hang the dish in a shaded area near flowers or existing hummingbird feeders.
4. Monitor and replace the fruit regularly to prevent spoilage and keep the feeder attractive to insects.

Best Practices for Feeding Insects to Hummingbirds

To ensure the health and safety of hummingbirds, follow these best practices:

• Cleanliness: Regularly clean feeders, dishes, and areas around insect traps to prevent mold, bacteria, and unwanted pests.
• Avoid Harmful Insects: Do not feed hummingbirds large or toxic insects, such as wasps, stink bugs, or fire ants.
• Moderation: Supplementing with insects should not replace nectar feeding entirely. A balanced diet is key.
• Observe and Adjust: Monitor hummingbird activity to identify their preferences and adjust methods accordingly.
• Protect from Predators: Place feeders and traps in safe locations to reduce risks from larger birds or other predators.

Seasonal Considerations

Hummingbirds’ dietary needs can change with the seasons. Adapting your approach ensures they receive the right nutrition year-round:

• Spring and Summer: Insects are naturally plentiful during the breeding season. Providing extra insects supports nest-building and chick-rearing.
• Fall: Increase insect feeding during migration preparation. Protein-rich diets help them build fat reserves for long journeys.
• Winter: In warmer climates, where some hummingbirds overwinter, offering insects can be a vital source of nutrition when natural food sources are scarce.

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of insects are best for feeding hummingbirds?

The best types of insects for feeding hummingbirds are small, soft-bodied ones that are easy for them to catch and consume. These include:

• Small flies (e.g., fruit flies and gnats): High in protein and readily available.\n
• Spiders: Provide fats and calcium, essential for chick-rearing and energy.
• Ants: Offer moderate protein and fat content. Small black ants are preferred.
• Beetles (e.g., ladybird beetles): Provide essential micronutrients.
• Aphids: Easy-to-digest protein and commonly found on plants.
• Mites: Tiny and nutrient-rich, often found naturally on plants and flowers.

Always avoid feeding hummingbirds large or toxic insects like wasps or stink bugs.

How can I attract more insects to my garden for hummingbirds?

To attract more insects to your garden, try the following methods:

• Plant native flowers: Native plants naturally attract insects that hummingbirds feed on.
• Avoid pesticides: Pesticides can harm insects and reduce the food supply for hummingbirds.
• Create water features: Shallow ponds, birdbaths, or dripping water features attract flies, gnats, and other small insects.
• Provide overripe fruit: Place fruit traps with bananas, apples, or peaches to attract fruit flies and gnats.
• Install insect-friendly habitats: Features like logs, brush piles, or wildflower patches encourage insect populations.

Are there any specific plants that attract both nectar and insects for hummingbirds?

Yes, certain plants can attract both nectar and insects, making them ideal for hummingbirds. These include:

• Bee balm (Monarda): Produces nectar for hummingbirds and attracts bees, flies, and other insects.
• Salvia (Sage): Offers abundant nectar and serves as a habitat for small insects.
• Coneflowers (Echinacea): A dual-purpose plant that attracts pollinators and insects while providing nectar.
• Milkweed: Attracts aphids and other insects while offering nectar.
• Fuchsias: Loved by hummingbirds for nectar and attract gnats and small flies.
• Honeysuckle: Produces nectar-rich flowers and provides shelter for insects.

How often should I feed hummingbirds insects compared to nectar?

Hummingbirds primarily rely on nectar for their high-energy needs and use insects as a protein supplement. The general ratio should be:

• 80% nectar: Hummingbirds consume nectar throughout the day for quick energy.
• 20% insects: Insects are consumed to meet protein and fat requirements, especially during breeding and migration seasons.

You don’t need to actively feed insects daily unless natural insect populations are low. Focus on supplementing insects during times when their protein needs are higher, such as nesting and migration.

Can I use a hummingbird feeder to feed them insects?

No, hummingbird feeders are specifically designed for nectar, not insects. Hummingbirds do eat insects as part of their natural diet, but they catch them in flight – they don’t feed on stationary insects.

The standard hummingbird feeder contains sugar water that mimics natural flower nectar (typically a 4:1 ratio of water to plain white sugar). Trying to put insects in a hummingbird feeder would likely:

1. Clog the feeding ports
2. Not attract hummingbirds since they hunt insects differently
3. Potentially spoil and create harmful bacteria

If you want to help hummingbirds get their protein from insects, the best approach is to create an insect-friendly garden with native plants. This will naturally attract small flying insects that hummingbirds can catch while they visit your flowers and feeders for nectar.

Final Thoughts

Feeding insects to hummingbirds is an excellent way to support their health, energy needs, and natural behaviors. By providing a steady source of protein and other nutrients, you help these tiny birds thrive in your garden.

Whether through planting native flowers, setting up insect feeders, or purchasing live insects, every effort contributes to a more hummingbird-friendly environment. Consistent care and attention not only benefit the hummingbirds but also create a more vibrant and diverse backyard ecosystem.

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Kayden Bliss

Kayden Bliss, the creator of beakofbirds, is a devoted bird enthusiast who shares tips, insights, and stories to inspire fellow bird lovers. When not writing, Kayden can be found exploring nature with binoculars in hand, marveling at the beauty of birds.

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