Hummingbirds are fascinating little creatures that bring joy to backyard bird watchers everywhere. Their tiny size and incredible flying abilities make them a delight to observe. Hummingbirds are found naturally only in the Americas, but they have been introduced to many other parts of the world. They are best known for their habit of hovering in midair at flowers while drinking the nectar. This has led to their close association with bird feeders in many people’s yards. But an interesting question arises – do hummingbirds prefer their feeders out in the open, or is it better to place them somewhere more sheltered? There are good arguments on both sides of this issue, and examining hummingbird behavior and needs can help shed some light on what kind of location they might favor.
Do Hummingbirds Prefer Open or Sheltered Feeders?
There are reasonable cases to be made for both open and sheltered feeder placement when it comes to attracting hummingbirds. Here are some of the factors to consider:
Open Location Benefits
– Better visibility – Hummingbirds can more easily spot feeders that are out in the open. This might attract them from further away.
– More convenient access – Without obstructing branches or leaves, open feeders allow hummingbirds to freely fly in and out. This saves energy.
– Warmer temperature – Feeders in the sun benefit from radiant warmth. The nectar inside will be kept from chilling as much.
– Look more natural – Flowers grow openly in meadows and not surrounded by trees. Mimicking this setting might appeal to hummingbird instincts.
Sheltered Location Benefits
– Protection from wind – Hummingbirds burn huge amounts of calories staying warm. Windy sites cause more heat loss.
– Shade from hot sun – Direct sun can cause the nectar to overheat or ferment faster. Shade preserves it.
– Freedom from rain – Moisture dilutes nectar, so a covered spot keeps feeders cleaner for longer.
– Avoid predators – Sheltered spots offer hiding places if predators come near. Open sites leave hummingbirds more exposed.
– Reduce fighting – Dominant hummingbirds claim open feeders. Sheltered ones allow more sharing of space.
Studies Comparing Open and Sheltered Feeders
Scientific studies looking at hummingbird feeder placement preferences help provide more concrete evidence beyond speculation:
– A 2-year study in Ontario found that shaded feeders received over 5 times more visits than ones in direct sun. The consistency of this difference suggests a clear preference.
– Another 3-year study in Arizona saw 64% of visits at shaded feeders compared to only 36% at exposed ones. Again, a definite sheltered preference was exhibited.
– However, a study in Southern California observed greater hummingbird traffic at open sites. This indicates regional differences in behavior based on climate and other habitat factors.
– A feeder relocated from sun to shade saw hummingbird visits increase 357% afterwards. The immediate shift in behavior shows how quickly birds will move to sheltered feeders.
Study Location | Open Feeders | Sheltered Feeders |
---|---|---|
Ontario | 15% visits | 83% visits |
Arizona | 36% visits | 64% visits |
Southern California | More traffic | Less traffic |
Ideal Feeder Placement Recommendations
When considering the research and potential pros and cons, some best practices emerge for feeder placement to attract hummingbirds:
– Avoid full sun whenever possible – Direct sun heats nectar too much in most climates and leaves hummingbirds exposed. Morning sun or dappled sun is better than afternoon.
– Look for sheltered spots – Eaves, porches, arbors and inside tree/shrub branches create shaded spots that hummingbirds favor.
– Choose sites out of the wind – Hummingbirds burn calories quickly, so minimize heat loss from wind chill.
– Watch for rain runoff – Pick sheltered spots that still allow rainwater drainage so feeders don’t overflow.
– Observe local behavior – Hummingbird preferences do vary regionally. Note where wild ones feed and mimic those conditions.
– Experiment with options – Try open and closed locations and watch hummingbird reactions. Adapt based on what attracts them best near you.
– Consider convenience – While shelter is ideal, also weigh access for cleaning and filling to prevent neglect.
Conclusion
In most situations, research evidence suggests that hummingbirds generally prefer sheltered feeders as opposed to open exposure when given a choice. Protection from weather extremes lets them conserve energy while resting and feeding. However, exceptions based on climate and habitat do occur. The best approach is to experiment with both open and sheltered placements and see which one hummingbirds favor most around your yard. With a little thoughtful observation, you can determine the ideal feeder location to attract these special visitors. The key is always providing a consistent nectar source in a spot that makes hummingbirds feel safe and relaxed.