Sightings of hummingbirds fluttering from flower to flower are one of the greatest gifts of spring and summer. If you’re looking to beautify your backyard with frequent visits from these captivating creatures, consider appealing to their mighty appetites.

Along with occasional visits from migrant species, you can expect to spot a ruby-throated hummingbird in Virginia—the only hummingbird species that breeds in North America, according to Virginia Cooperative Extension.

Though they weigh no more than a copper penny, ruby-throated hummingbirds have very high metabolisms. They feed up to a dozen times an hour from dawn to dusk, can consume the nectar of hundreds of flowers and may capture up to 2,000 insects per day.

Gardeners can select specific flowering plants for attracting hummingbirds, but they can draw even more visitors by adding a feeder—or two or three—to the yard.

Hang feeders in shady spots, spaced 10 to 15 feet apart. If feeders are exposed to too much sun, their contents may spoil quickly. They also need to be cleaned frequently, as hummingbirds can contaminate the liquid while feeding.

Hummingbird feeders and food are readily available at garden centers, and the nectar can be prepared at home as well.

A quick recipe is to add one part granulated sugar to four parts hot tap water, and boil for 2 minutes. Do not use honey, artificial sweeteners or red food dye. Fill the feeders with the cooled mixture, and change it about every three days.

The red coloring of hummingbird food is not necessary. It’s safer to use feeders that have bright red parts, or tie bright red ribbons close to the feeder. To really attract their attention, consider planting brightly colored flowers around the feeder.

For more information about hummingbirds, including flowers to attract them, read Extension’s publication, For the Birds, Butterflies & Hummingbirds: Creating Inviting Habitats.

Read more in Virginia Farm Bureau’s summer Cultivate magazine.