The Ruby-throated Hummingbird is the only species of hummingbird that lives in the Midwest. An easy feeding solution is made from mixing one part cane sugar with four parts water.

Get the feeders ready: Ruby-throated hummingbirds are returning from their winter-long journey to southern Florida and Central America.

With a mass equivalent to three or four dimes, this tiny bird’s annual flight is truly amazing. Scientists once argued about hummingbirds’ ability to cross the Gulf of Mexico, but now know that many of the birds make the journey, and some travel as far south as Panama (about 2,200 miles from Lawrence).

Ruby-throated hummingbirds are the only species of hummingbird that lives in the Midwest, although albino and partial albinos are occasionally reported. The birds are typically 3 to 4 inches long with a metallic green back and crown. Males of the species exhibit the identifying ruby-red throat and a forked brown to black tail; females’ throats are dull-white to gray and their tails are square or rounded.

Hummingbird feeders are best hung near native flowers and shrubs that provide additional food and shelter for the birds. Although nectar sources are important, insects make up more than 50 percent of hummingbirds’ diets.

Most hummingbird enthusiasts have different opinions about the various styles of feeders that are available, but we do know that hummingbirds are attracted to bright colors, especially red. Placing the feeder near plants with brightly colored flowers or tying a bright ribbon to the feeder can also help to attract the tiny birds.

An easy feeding solution is made from mixing one part cane sugar with four parts water. Boil the mixture to completely dissolve the sugar, and allow the mixture to cool before pouring it into the feeder. Extra sugar water can be refrigerated for future use.

Honey, dyes, food coloring and artificial sweeteners can be lethal to hummingbirds and should never be added to the feeding solution.

Clean feeders once or twice a week throughout the season with hot water. A weak bleach solution can be used occasionally for more thorough cleaning.

Although male ruby-throated hummingbirds were reported in this area as early as April 4 this year, females are likely just arriving. Males travel a few weeks earlier to establish territorial boundaries. When the females arrive they will begin building nests and seek out males for mating. Female hummingbirds raise their young alone.

Feeders should be left in place until mid to late October.

Recommended plants to attract hummingbirds

• Agastache
• Columbine
• Hollyhock
• Lobelia
• Liatris
• Canna
• Gladiolus
• Monarda
• Salvia
• Lily
• Honeysuckle (avoid invasive varieties)
• Rose-of-Sharon
• Weigela

Insects eaten by hummingbirds

• Mosquitoes
• Spiders
• Gnats
• Fruit flies
• Small bees.