Late February might seem like an odd time for yard decorating, but there’s a surprisingly practical reason to tie bright red ribbons around your trees and shrubs. This simple trick can help migrating hummingbirds spot your yard from the air—and it might just turn your backyard into their first refueling stop of the season.
The Late February Signal for Hummingbirds
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Check PriceHummingbirds navigate migration routes using visual cues, and red is one of their most powerful attractants. In nature, tubular red flowers like salvias, trumpet vines, and coral honeysuckle signal rich nectar sources. But in late February, most of these plants haven’t bloomed yet—especially in regions where hummingbirds begin their northward journey.
That’s where red ribbon comes in. Hanging strips of bright red fabric around your yard mimics those early nectar flowers, creating a visual beacon that tells passing hummingbirds your property might offer food and safety. Ruby-throated hummingbirds, which migrate through the eastern United States, start returning as early as late February in Gulf Coast states. Rufous hummingbirds begin their journey up the Pacific Coast around the same time.
These tiny birds face enormous challenges during migration. They travel hundreds or even thousands of miles, burning through energy reserves at an incredible rate. When they spot red in the landscape, instinct tells them to investigate. A yard with red ribbons positioned near feeders gives these exhausted travelers a better chance of finding sustenance exactly when they need it most.
The ribbon doesn’t provide food itself, of course. Think of it as advertising. Once hummingbirds come closer to investigate the red, they’ll discover your nectar feeders, early-blooming flowers, or other resources you’ve provided. It’s a simple visual trick that works with their natural foraging behavior rather than against it.
Why February Timing Makes All the Difference
February is National Bird Feeding Month, and for good reason. Late winter represents one of the most challenging periods for birds across North America. Natural food sources are depleted, insects are scarce, and temperatures can still plummet. Birds that overwinter in your area are struggling to maintain body heat and find enough calories to survive until spring.
For migrating hummingbirds specifically, late February marks the beginning of a critical window. These birds don’t wait for perfect spring weather—they follow instinct and photoperiod cues that tell them when to start moving north. That means they’re often traveling through regions where freezing temperatures are still possible and flowers haven’t emerged yet.
By hanging red ribbon in late February rather than waiting until March or April, you’re preparing your yard at precisely the moment when it matters most. Early migrants get the support they need, and you increase your chances of attracting hummingbirds to your yard for the entire breeding season. Once hummingbirds find a reliable food source, they often return to the same location year after year.
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The timing also benefits other species. Northern cardinals, with their preference for red berries and fruits, may investigate the ribbons as well. While they won’t be fooled into thinking ribbon is food, the added activity near your feeders can draw their attention to the sunflower seeds, safflower, and other offerings you’ve put out.
Simple Steps to Hang Red Ribbon Effectively
You don’t need anything fancy—basic red ribbon from a craft store works perfectly. Look for weatherproof options if possible, though standard fabric ribbon will hold up for several weeks even in rain.
Start by cutting ribbons into strips roughly twelve to eighteen inches long. This gives them enough length to flutter in the breeze, creating movement that catches a hummingbird’s attention from above. Tie the ribbons securely around tree branches, porch railings, shepherd’s hooks, or shrubs throughout your yard.
Position ribbons strategically near your hummingbird feeders—within three to six feet is ideal. This creates a clear connection between the visual attractant and the actual food source. If you don’t have feeders up yet, late February is the perfect time to clean and fill them with fresh nectar. Use a simple ratio of one part white sugar to four parts water, with no red dye needed.
Spread ribbons around the perimeter of your yard as well, especially on the south-facing side where migrants are most likely to approach from. Space them every ten to fifteen feet to create multiple visual cues without overwhelming the landscape.
Keep the ribbons up through March and into early April, depending on your region. As native flowers begin blooming and providing natural red cues, you can gradually remove the ribbons. The goal is to bridge the gap between late winter and true spring, not to create permanent decorations.
One important note: avoid placing ribbons where they could tangle birds or create hazards. Tie them securely so they don’t come loose and become litter, and keep them away from areas where birds might nest.
Boost Your Yard’s Appeal with More Winter Bird Tips
Red ribbon works best as part of a complete backyard habitat strategy. Combine it with high-energy foods that help birds survive late winter’s challenges. Black oil sunflower seeds provide excellent fat and protein for cardinals, chickadees, and finches. Suet cakes offer concentrated calories for woodpeckers, nuthatches, and other insect-eaters struggling to find food.
Water is just as critical as food during this time. Birds need to drink and bathe even in cold weather, but natural water sources may be frozen. A heated birdbath or simple water heater keeps water accessible when birds need it most. Position it near your feeders and ribbons to create a complete rest stop.
Shelter matters too. Native evergreens, brush piles, and dense shrubs give birds protection from wind, rain, and predators. If your yard lacks natural shelter, consider leaving ornamental grasses uncut through winter or creating a simple brush pile in a corner of your property.
For hummingbirds specifically, consider planting early-blooming natives alongside your ribbon strategy. Coral honeysuckle, red columbine, and native currants can provide natural nectar once they’re established, reducing the birds’ dependence on feeders alone.
The combination of visual attractants, reliable food, clean water, and safe shelter transforms your yard into a genuine haven. Birds will not only stop during migration—they’ll stay, nest, and return season after season. That simple red ribbon in late February becomes the first step in a relationship that lasts years.
Remember to keep feeders clean and nectar fresh throughout the season. Change sugar water every three to five days, more often in warm weather, to prevent harmful fermentation. Clean feeders with hot water and a brush weekly to avoid mold and bacteria.
Happy birding!