Why You May Want To Avoid Using A Ruby Throated Hummingbird Call To Bring More To Your Yard

Between flowers that will transform your space into a hummingbird heaven, birdbaths, and quality hummingbird feeders, there are all kinds of effective ways to attract these tiny birds to your yard. One method that some may also find effective is using audio recordings of hummingbirds to draw the birds closer. However, despite whether or not this trick works to bring more hummingbirds to your yard, you may want to think twice before trying it. These recorded sounds can cause confusion and potential harm to the birds, especially during mating season.

Not all species can sing, but if you listen closely you might be able to hear certain hummingbirds singing in your yard. Ruby throated hummingbirds, in particular, make a series of chirps and squeaks that can sound like singing. These sounds are mostly used by males to attract mates or to mark their territory. When attempting to replicate these sounds, you may end up causing the birds in your area to become unnecessarily distracted, leaving them too tired and vulnerable to deal with any real threats that arise.

Research about the effects of using recorded sounds like bird calls to attract hummingbirds and other birds to your yard is still ongoing. With that said, some researchers have found that recorded sounds are too distracting for birds. That same research also suspects that long-term exposure to these kinds of recordings may impact more serious aspects of bird life, including mating rituals. Every calorie counts for ruby throated hummingbirds, which need to feed almost constantly to keep their energy up and consume the human equivalent of 150,000 calories every day. Chasing after bird call sound effects is a misuse of the birds' energy that could otherwise be used for foraging. Another suspected harmful impact to birds include increased exposure to predators, especially if they're drawn into open areas.

There are plenty of guidelines to follow for "ethical" use of recorded bird calls, but with a lack of research on either side, it may be best to avoid the practice altogether. To play it safe, ditch the ruby throated hummingbird calls and stick to the proven essential features for attracting hummingbirds to your garden instead. Items like shallow birdbaths, flowers, and feeders will surely do the trick and provide helpful resources for the birds without distracting them from their busy schedules.