I asked 2 ornithologists about the surprising way hummingbirds use spatial memory to find feeders — and how to attract more of them to your yard

Hummingbird on red valerian plant.

Hummingbirds are beautiful creatures; it's no wonder that nature lovers enjoy seeing them swoop into their yards to feed. These hovering birds are a spectacular sight to behold with their silky plumage and graceful acrobatics.

They don’t just visit your yard for your pleasure; hummingbirds are purposeful creatures in search of food. But rather than feasting on insects and seeds alone, they seek out high-energy nectar from tubular, brightly-colored flowers and feeders.