Many homeowners enjoy attracting birds to their yards by providing feeders. Two common types of feeders are hummingbird feeders, which offer nectar to attract hummingbirds, and seed feeders, which provide seeds to attract songbirds. A common question among backyard bird enthusiasts is whether these two types of feeders can be placed near each other.
Quick Answers
Here are some quick answers to the question of whether hummingbird feeders can be located near seed feeders:
- Yes, it is generally fine to place hummingbird feeders near seed feeders. There is no evidence that doing so will deter hummingbirds from visiting.
- However, it’s best to separate the feeders by around 10-15 feet to minimize competition between hummingbirds and other birds.
- Try to position the hummingbird feeder in a location where hummingbirds can easily access it without being bothered by larger birds at seed feeders.
- Be sure to keep the feeders clean to prevent mold and bacterial growth that could sicken birds.
- Consider using feeder models designed to deter bees, wasps and ants, which are attracted to the sugar water in hummingbird feeders.
Risks of Competition Between Birds
Although it’s usually fine to place hummingbird feeders near seed feeders, one potential downside is increased competition between the different types of birds in your yard. Here are some of the risks:
- Larger and more aggressive birds from seed feeders, like jays and sparrows, may bully hummingbirds and intimidate them from approaching the nectar feeders.
- Crowding near feeders could facilitate spread of diseases between species.
- With limited space, dominant species may monopolize prime feeding areas and restrict access for less assertive birds.
- Competition for desirable spots may lead to stressful skirmishes between birds.
To minimize risks, try to space feeders far enough apart to provide good access for all species. Observe behavior over time and adjust feeder locations if needed to prevent harassment.
Optimal Placement of Hummingbird Feeders
When positioning hummingbird feeders near seed feeders, here are some tips to create an optimal setup:
- Place hummingbird feeders at least 10-15 feet from seed feeders to minimize crowding.
- Situate hummingbird feeders closer to trees, shrubs or other sheltered spots so hummingbirds have refuge after feeding.
- Avoid placing feeders directly next to windows, which can result in fatal bird collisions.
- Select relatively secluded hummingbird feeder locations away from main bird traffic areas.
- Elevate hummingbird feeders at 5-6 feet high, using hooks, cables or poles, for easy hovering access.
Keeping feeders far enough apart and providing sanctuary areas helps attract hummingbirds while decreasing competition.
Tips to Attract Hummingbirds Near Seed Feeders
If space constraints mean you have to keep hummingbird and seed feeders closer together, here are some tips to make it work:
- Provide multiple hummingbird feeders in different spots so hummingbirds have options.
- Use cage-style seed feeders that offer some protection while birds feed.
- Include ground feeders to attract doves and juncos away from other feeders.
- Offer suet feeders to divert woodpeckers from hummingbird nectar.
- Supply oriole nectar feeders to give aggressive birds another nectar source.
- Plant shrubs and flowers around feeders to create appealing habitat.
Having alternative feeding stations helps minimize monopolization while meeting all birds’ needs.
Preventing Feeder Problems
With any bird feeder setup, proper maintenance and hygiene is crucial. Here are some tips for preventing problems:
- Clean feeders weekly – Use a dilute bleach solution to scrub away mold, bacteria and fungal buildup.
- Rinse thoroughly – Ensure no cleaning residue remains that could harm birds.
- Dry in the sun – Sunlight helps naturally sanitize feeders.
- Replace nectar regularly – Every 2-3 days in warm weather to prevent spoilage.
- Use wasp deterrents – Attach fake wasp nests or other deterrents to discourage wasps.
- Avoid debris – Keep the feeder area clear of old seed hulls and droppings.
- Frequently observe birds – Look for signs of illness and discontinue use if issues emerge.
With diligent maintenance, diseases and pests can be avoided at congested feeders.
Conclusion
Placing hummingbird feeders near seed feeders is perfectly fine in most backyards. To make the setup successful, allow adequate spacing between feeders, position hummingbird feeders in sheltered sites, include alternative feeders to minimize crowding, and rigorously maintain cleanliness. With some planning, you can attract an assortment of lively birds for viewing enjoyment.
