When Do You Stop Feeding Hummingbirds In Michigan?
If you're a bird lover and live in Michigan, you may have already experienced the joy of watching hummingbirds in your backyard. These tiny, fast-moving birds are fascinating to watch, and many people enjoy feeding them. However, if you want to help protect these birds, you need to know when to stop feeding them. Here's what you need to know about when to stop feeding hummingbirds in Michigan.
Why Do You Need to Stop Feeding Hummingbirds?
Hummingbirds are migratory birds, which means they travel to different locations depending on the season. In Michigan, hummingbirds typically arrive in early May and leave in late September or early October. During their migration, they rely on natural sources of food, such as nectar from flowers, to fuel their journey.
When you feed hummingbirds, you're providing them with an extra source of food that they don't normally rely on. While this may seem like a good thing, it can actually be harmful to the birds. If they become too reliant on human-provided food, they may not have the energy or motivation to continue their migration. This can be especially harmful if the birds don't have access to natural sources of food along their migration route.
When Should You Stop Feeding Hummingbirds in Michigan?
The best time to stop feeding hummingbirds in Michigan is in early September. By this time, most of the hummingbirds have already started their migration south. Continuing to feed them at this point can disrupt their natural migration patterns and make it harder for them to complete their journey.
It's also a good idea to gradually reduce the amount of food you provide to hummingbirds in the weeks leading up to September. This will help wean them off human-provided food and encourage them to rely more on natural sources of food.
How Can You Help Hummingbirds During Migration?
While it's important to stop feeding hummingbirds in Michigan during their migration, there are other ways you can help these birds. One option is to plant native flowers that provide nectar for hummingbirds. Some good options to consider include bee balm, cardinal flower, and columbine.
You can also provide a source of water for hummingbirds, such as a shallow bird bath or fountain. This will help keep the birds hydrated during their long journey.
What Should You Do If You Find a Sick or Injured Hummingbird?
If you come across a sick or injured hummingbird, it's important to handle it with care. Hummingbirds are delicate creatures and can easily become stressed or injured if handled improperly.
If possible, gently pick up the hummingbird and place it in a small box lined with soft material, such as tissue paper or a soft cloth. Keep the box in a warm, quiet location and contact a local wildlife rehabilitation center for assistance.
Conclusion
If you want to help protect hummingbirds in Michigan, it's important to know when to stop feeding them. By stopping in early September and gradually reducing the amount of food you provide in the weeks leading up to that point, you can help ensure that these birds complete their migration successfully. And if you want to do more to help hummingbirds, consider planting native flowers or providing a source of water for them during their journey.
Remember, hummingbirds are a precious part of Michigan's wildlife, and it's up to all of us to help protect them.
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