During the summer months more hummingbirds visit our feeders than at any other time of the yard.  As such, one of the most common questions that I get at this time of the year is, “How many hummingbirds am I feeding?

       Surprisingly, it really isn’t that hard to come up with a good estimate of the number of birds visiting your feeders at this time of the year.  All you have to do is to wait until you think you are looking at the maximum number of hummingbirds visiting your feeders at one time.  Quickly tally the birds you see and multiply that number by 6.  The result will be an estimate of how many different hummingbirds are visiting your feeders on that particular day.

       For example, if you count 40 birds, you are actually feeding approximately 180 hungry hummers.

       Remember this technique only works during the summer months when ruby-throated hummingbirds are the most plentiful.

       This technique is based on studies that compared the number of banded to unbanded birds caught and marked in backyard settings at the peak of the hummingbird season.