Flowers are key to attracting hummingbirds

Want to see more hummingbirds in your yard? Lots of blooming flowers — especially tubular varieties — help attract nesting residents.

A good hummingbird habitat has more than just a sugar-water feeder.

It should have some small deciduous trees and dense shrubs for nesting. There should be places to perch around your feeder, too. Remember, a hummer has to feed every 15 minutes while awake. It will visit 2,000 flowers each day.

A drip fountain or misting device provides a water source. A hummingbird will not visit a bird bath.

Finally, keep sugar water feeders clean and fresh!