Yes, you can have bird feeders and hummingbird feeders together in the same yard or garden. However, there are some important considerations when placing the two types of feeders in close proximity to ensure both types of birds can feed comfortably and safely.
Placement Considerations
When placing bird feeders and hummingbird feeders together, it’s best to separate them by at least 10-15 feet. This allows plenty of space for both types of birds to feed without competing for the same spaces. Here are some tips for optimal placement:
- Position hummingbird feeders in more open, visible areas closer to trees, shrubs, and flowering plants that attract hummingbirds.
- Place bird feeders a bit farther away from the hummingbird feeders and closer to bushes, shaded areas, trees, and other cover birds like when feeding.
- Avoid placing feeders directly next to each other. The farther apart they are, the less likely aggressive birds will guard both feeders.
- Put feeders at different heights. Lower hummingbird feeders to around 5 feet high and hang bird feeders higher up around 7-9 feet.
- Allow for open fly space around each feeder so birds have room to maneuver and aren’t crowded.
With some strategic planning, you can create ideal feeding stations for both hummingbirds and other backyard birds by separating their food sources appropriately.
Preventing Aggressive Birds
One challenge with having bird and hummingbird feeders close together is dealing with aggressive birds that may guard both feeders and prevent other birds from feeding. Here are some tips to discourage this behavior:
- Avoid overcrowding by providing multiple feeders for both hummingbirds and other birds.
- Use feeders designed to make it harder for larger aggressive birds to perch and guard them.
- Place feeders in open visible locations away from dense bushes or cover.
- Consider using feeders with perch barriers or ports sized only for small birds if aggressive species are routinely a problem.
- Take feeders down at night when guarding behavior is worst.
- Use animal deterrents like predator decoys or sprinklers on motion sensors to discourage territorial behavior at feeders.
With some thoughtful feeder selections and placements, you can allow both hummingbirds and other birds to feed peacefully together in your yard.
Choosing the Right Food and Feeders
It’s important to offer the right type of food in each feeder positioned for hummingbirds versus other birds. Here are some tips:
- Use nectar in hummingbird feeders. Make homemade nectar by mixing 1 part white sugar with 4 parts water. Do not use honey, artificial sweeteners, food coloring, or brown sugar.
- Put out high energy suet, seeds, nuts, and fruit in bird feeders. Avoid adding nectar, honey, or sugar water to bird feeders.
- Select hummingbird feeders with red parts, nectar ports, and perches designed for hummingbird feeding.
- Use bird feeders suited for birds with larger perches and seed ports like hopper, tube, or platform feeders.
- Clean and disinfect both hummingbird and bird feeders every 2-3 days to prevent mold and bacteria.
Choosing feeders and food specifically geared for hummingbirds versus other birds will help attract both to your yard.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best setup for hummingbird and bird feeders?
The best setup is to place hummingbird feeders and bird feeders at least 10-15 feet apart in open visible locations. Position hummingbird feeders closer to flowers, bushes, and trees hummingbirds are attracted to. Hang bird feeders near cover like shrubs and bushes other birds seek when feeding. Put feeders at different heights and allow ample fly space around each.
How do you prevent bees from bird and hummingbird feeders?
Use bee guards on feeder ports and perches. Place feeders in shade or cover. Use saucer-style feeders with nectar instead of exposed nectar. Move feeders farther from beehives and flowers. Try using a feeder with a moat that allows birds to feed but deters bees. Use natural bee repellants like peppermint oil around feeders.
Should you take down hummingbird feeders at night?
It’s generally recommended to take down both hummingbird and bird feeders at night to prevent mold growth in leftover nectar or seed. Feeders can attract nocturnal animals like bats, raccoons, and bears at night as well. Taking down feeders overnight eliminates this risk. Some people choose to leave owl or bat feeders up at night while removing hummingbird and bird feeders.
Can you use red food coloring in hummingbird feeders?
Red food coloring is not recommended in hummingbird feeder nectar. The artificial coloring provides no benefit to hummingbirds and can potentially be unhealthy if consumed regularly. Hummingbirds are attracted to the red parts on feeders, not red nectar. Plain white sugar water is best.
How often should you change hummingbird nectar?
It’s best to change hummingbird nectar and clean feeders every 2-3 days, or daily in hot weather. The sugar water can spoil and grow mold easily, especially in heat. Follow a consistent nectar changing schedule to keep feeders fresh.
Conclusion
Bird feeders and hummingbird feeders can work well together in the same yard with some careful setup. Separate the feeders by at least 10-15 feet and place them at different heights in open visible spots. Choose feeders and food designed specifically for hummingbirds or birds. Discourage aggressive bird behaviors with deterrents and ample feeder numbers. Take down all feeders at night. With smart placement and care, you can attract many species of birds to your outdoor space.
