Most people are familiar with the tiny, iridescent hummingbirds. These fascinating creatures are known for their rapid wing beats and their ability to hover in mid-air. They are also drawn to brightly colored flowers, making them a common sight in gardens across the country.
These birds are one of the most popular backyard birds. They are attracted to a variety of flowers, but are the popular petunias also attractive to hummingbirds? Let’s take a closer look at why these particular flowers are such an ideal choice for hummingbird gardens.
What Are Hummingbirds?
This bird specie is one of the most fascinating creatures in the bird world. They are tiny, yet they can fly at incredible speeds and navigate their way through the air with astonishing dexterity. They are also incredibly beautiful, with feathers that shimmer in the light.
Hummingbirds are a type of bird that is native to the Americas. There are over 150 different species, and they can be found in many habitats, from tropical rainforests to high mountain regions. They get their name from the hum they make as they flap their wings, which can beat up to 80 times per second.
What Are They Attracted To?
These birds are attracted to various things, but one of their favorite sources of food is nectar. Nectar is a sugary liquid produced by flowers, and they will often spend hours flying from flower to flower in search of this sweet treat. In addition to nectar, they also eat small insects, which they catch in mid-air.
They are also attracted to brightly colored flowers. This is because the color is a good indicator of the amount of nectar that a flower has. They are particularly drawn to red flowers, but they will also visit other plants with orange, pink, and yellow blooms.
Are Hummingbirds Attracted to Petunias?
These nimble flyers are always on the lookout for brightly colored flowers that can provide them with more nectar. So, it stands to reason that they would be attracted to these blossoms. The color red is a sign of ripe fruit, and a red flower is a promise of a sugar-rich treat.
These birds are also attracted to the shape of petunias. The trumpet-shaped flowers are designed to funnel nectar into the center, making it easy for them to access. In addition, they often have a strong fragrance, which can also be a factor in attracting these birds.
Why Are Hummingbirds Attracted to Petunias?
There are several reasons why these flowers are such a popular choice for hummingbird gardens.
They are so popular because they produce a large amount of nectar. This is because they have a long flowering season, and their flowers are large and open, making it easy for the hummingbirds to access the nectar.
The wide range of colors also contributes to their popularity. You can find petunias in just about any color, from white and pale pink to bright red and purple. This means that you can create a hummingbird garden that is full of color and interest.
Which Color of Petunias Do Hummingbirds Like the Most?
Red may signal to these birds that the flower is rich in nectar and the fiery hue is impossible to ignore and a delicious treat for these little birds. However, red isn’t the only color that they are attracted to.
Pink ones are also a favorite, thanks to their delicate hue and sweet fragrance, and purple ones have a unique appeal. So, if you want to attract a variety of hummingbirds to your garden, it’s best to plant a mix of colors.
Do Hummingbirds Only Visit Petunias?
While they are a favorite choice for many hummingbird gardeners, these birds will also visit other types of flowers.
Some of the other flowers that they are attracted to include impatiens, begonias, fuchsias, hibiscus, lantanas, and salvias but petunias still outrank all of them because of how much nectar they produce. So, if you’re looking to attract these beautiful birds to your garden, be sure to plant some of them.
Is It Safe for Hummingbirds to Visit Your Garden?
You would probably enjoy seeing these birds flying around your garden, but you may also wonder if your garden is safe from these feathered creatures.
The good news is that they are not known to be destructive, and they will not harm the plants in your garden. However, you should avoid using pesticides or herbicides in your garden as these can be harmful to the birds.
You may also want to provide a water source for them, such as a birdbath or small fountain, as they will drink from it and use it for bathing. By doing this, you will make your garden even more attractive to these beautiful birds.
Are hummingbirds attracted to petunias: Final Thoughts
Petunias are one of the most common flowers that hummingbirds visit. The colorful petals and sweet nectar make them irresistible to these tiny birds. While these flowers are the popular choice, there are other flowers that these feathered creatures will visit.
Adding a variety of hummingbird-friendly flowers to your garden is the best way to attract these beautiful birds. And, by providing them with a safe place to drink and bathe, you will make your garden even more inviting.
Related article: Are Hummingbirds Attracted to Zinnias?