Mary Allen
Introduction: Ceasing Hummingbird Feeding in Tennessee
Hummingbirds are a delight to watch and feed, but it is important to know when to stop feeding them. In Tennessee, it is recommended to stop hummingbird feeding during the fall season as they begin their migration to warmer climates. Ceasing hummingbird feeding in Tennessee is essential to protect their health and ensure their successful migration.
Why Stop Feeding Hummingbirds in Tennessee
Hummingbirds need to prepare for their long migration to their wintering grounds in Central America and Mexico. They need to build up their fat reserves and strengthen their wings. Continuing to provide a food source can cause them to delay their migration, which can be harmful to their health and survival. Additionally, the colder temperatures can cause the sugar water to freeze and become inaccessible to the hummingbirds, which can result in starvation.
When to Stop Feeding Hummingbirds in Tennessee
The best time to stop feeding hummingbirds in Tennessee is in mid to late September. This is when most of the hummingbirds have migrated south. However, it is important to keep the feeder up for an additional week or two to ensure that any latecomers have enough food to fuel their journey.
What to Do Before Ceasing Hummingbird Feeding
Before ceasing hummingbird feeding, it is important to clean and store the feeder properly. The feeder should be cleaned thoroughly with hot water and soap to remove any mold or bacteria. It is also recommended to soak the feeder in a solution of one-part white vinegar to four-parts water for about an hour to disinfect it. Once the feeder is clean and dry, it should be stored in a cool, dry place until next spring.
How to Stop Feeding Hummingbirds in Tennessee
To stop feeding hummingbirds in Tennessee, simply remove the feeder and clean it as mentioned above. It is recommended to keep the feeder down for at least two weeks to ensure that any lingering hummingbirds have left the area. If you have a lot of hummingbirds visiting your feeder, you may want to gradually reduce the amount of sugar water you provide to wean them off.
What to Expect After Ceasing Hummingbird Feeding
After ceasing hummingbird feeding, you may notice a decline in the number of hummingbirds in your yard. This is normal as they migrate south for the winter. However, you may still see a few stragglers passing through on their way to their wintering grounds.
Benefits of Stopping Hummingbird Feeding in Tennessee
Stopping hummingbird feeding in Tennessee is beneficial to the health and survival of the hummingbirds. It ensures that they are able to prepare for their long journey to their wintering grounds and reduces the risk of them becoming dependent on human-provided food sources.
Alternatives to Feeding Hummingbirds in Tennessee
Instead of feeding hummingbirds, you can provide a habitat that supports their natural food sources. Planting native flowers like bee balm, cardinal flower, and columbine can attract hummingbirds and provide them with a natural food source. You can also provide a water source like a bird bath or mister for them to bathe and drink from.
How to Attract Native Pollinators in Tennessee
To attract native pollinators in Tennessee, plant a variety of native flowers and herbs that bloom throughout the growing season. Examples include milkweed, coneflower, and goldenrod. Providing nesting sites like hollow stems or bee hotels can also attract pollinators.
Common Misconceptions About Hummingbird Feeding in Tennessee
One common misconception is that hummingbirds will not migrate if they are still being fed. However, hummingbirds migrate based on instinct, not food availability. Another misconception is that red food coloring is necessary to attract hummingbirds. In reality, they are attracted to the color red and do not need food coloring to find the feeder.
Conclusion: The Importance of Responsible Wildlife Feeding
Ceasing hummingbird feeding in Tennessee is an important aspect of responsible wildlife feeding. It ensures the health and survival of the hummingbirds and supports their natural instincts. Providing a habitat that supports natural food sources is a great alternative to feeding hummingbirds.
Resources for Further Information on Hummingbird Feeding in Tennessee
- Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency: https://www.tn.gov/twra/wildlife/birds/hummingbirds.html
- Audubon Society: https://www.audubon.org/news/the-hummingbird-migration-has-begun-heres-how-help-them-along-way
- Hummingbird Society: https://www.hummingbirdsociety.org/feeding-hummingbirds/when-to-stop-feeding-hummingbirds/