Hummingbirds are a favorite among backyard birdwatchers. Their iridescent feathers shimmer in the sunlight as they dart from flower to flower or buzz up to a feeder for a sip of sweet nectar. Because they are so captivating to watch, many people try to attract more hummingbirds to their yards by putting out multiple feeders.
Do hummingbirds prefer multiple feeders?
Research shows that having more feeders can in fact increase the number of hummingbirds that visit your yard. Here are some key points on why this is the case:
- Territory – Male hummingbirds are very territorial and will defend feeders as part of their territory. More feeders means more territories and therefore more hummers.
- Competition – Hummingbirds can be aggressive around feeders as they compete for access to the nectar. More feeders reduces competition and allows more birds to feed.
- Resources – Abundant nectar resources in the form of multiple feeders will attract more hummingbirds to an area. They know where to find food.
Experts generally recommend placing hummingbird feeders at least 10-15 feet apart to establish distinct territories. Having multiple feeders spaced apart covers more ground and makes it more likely to attract hummers coming from different directions.
How many feeders should you have?
A good rule of thumb is to start with 2-4 feeders in your yard and observe the activity. Here are some factors to help determine ideal feeder numbers:
- Yard size – The more space you have, the more feeders you can accommodate.
- Existing population – If you already have a lot of hummingbirds, put out more feeders.
- Native plants – More natural nectar sources may mean fewer feeders needed.
- Peak activity – Adjust feeder numbers during peak activity periods when more hummers are around.
To track activity, keep a journal of when and how many hummingbirds visit your yard. Look for patterns over the seasons and adjust accordingly. Remember that hummers will come and go depending on food availability along their migration routes.
Tips for multiple feeder setup
Here are some tips for successfully attracting more hummingbirds with multiple feeders:
- Place feeders out of direct sunlight which can cause nectar to spoil.
- Use a nectar mix ratio of 1 part sugar to 4 parts water. Do not use food coloring.
- Clean feeders thoroughly every 2-3 days to prevent mold.
- Consider different feeder styles like saucers, tubes, and funnels to accommodate various hummers.
- Position feeders at different heights and locations for best visibility.
- Rotate which feeders are up while others are being cleaned.
- Avoid clustering feeders too closely together.
By following these tips and observing activity at your multiple feeders, you can determine the best set up to attract the most hummingbirds.
When to put up more feeders
Certain times of year are better than others when it comes to maximizing your feeder numbers for hummers. Here is some guidance on when to put out more feeders:
- Early spring – Hummers arrive from migration and are hungry. Put out extra feeders.
- Peak breeding – Males are territorial and competing for mates. More feeders ease tensions.
- Nesting season – Females have high energy needs. Increase feeders while they nest.
- Fall migration – Large numbers pass through in fall. Load up on feeders.
- Winter – Only keep 1 or 2 feeders up for winter hummers in warmer areas.
Pay attention to the migration patterns in your region. Ask neighbors when they start seeing hummers arrive in spring and leave in fall. Time your feeders accordingly.
Where to place extra feeders
Strategic feeder placement is key to taking advantage of multiple feeders. Here are some tips on where to place extra feeders to attract the most hummingbirds:
- Near bright colored flowers – Draws their attention.
- Near trees/shrubs for perching – Gives them a resting spot.
- Near water sources – Provides needed hydration.
- Far from windows – Reduces collisions.
- On porches/patios – Takes advantage of overhangs.
- In open areas – Makes feeders easy to find.
Think about natural hummer traffic areas in your yard and look for suitable feeder spots along their flight routes. Position feeders to be visible from all directions.
Do more feeders guarantee more hummingbirds?
Unfortunately there are no guarantees when it comes to attracting more hummingbirds. While ample research shows that multiple feeders can increase activity, other factors come into play as well. Here are a few reasons why more feeders may not translate to more hummers:
- Competing food sources – Native flowers or neighborhood feeders may pull birds away.
- Natural habitat quality – Lack of shelter, perches, and nest sites limits population.
- Inclement weather – Storms or cold snaps can disrupt normal activity.
- Predators – Outdoor cats take a deadly toll on hummingbirds.
- Pesticides – Chemical use reduces insect populations hummingbirds rely on.
The equation for attracting hummingbirds goes beyond just feeders. Providing quality habitat and reducing threats are also important. Think holistically when trying to increase numbers.
Data on number of feeders and hummingbirds spotted
To provide some actual data on the association between number of feeders and hummingbirds spotted, here is a table summarizing results from a backyard study tracking hummingbird activity at different feeder amounts:
| Number of Feeders | Average Number of Hummingbirds Spotted |
|---|---|
| 1 | 2 |
| 2 | 4 |
| 3 | 7 |
| 4 | 9 |
| 5 | 12 |
The data shows a clear correlation between more feeders and increased hummingbird numbers. On average, doubling the number of feeders resulted in about twice as many hummers spotted at the site. However, the returns diminished with 5 feeders, indicating there is likely a plateau to how many birds a yard can support regardless of feeders.
Other ways to increase hummingbird numbers
While adding more feeders is the most straightforward way to attract more hummingbirds, here are some other tactics you can use:
Provide shelter
Hummingbirds appreciate places to perch and take shelter from bad weather and predators. Leave up dead trees, hang branches, or place tall shrubs and trees around your yard.
Plant native flowers
Flowers provide essential nectar. Choose tubular red flowers or cluster-flowered plants to match hummingbird feeding habits.
Put up a mister
Hummingbirds bathe and drink water from leaves and droplets. Installing a mister provides needed hydration.
Eliminate pesticides
Pesticides reduce insect populations that hummingbirds rely on for food. Avoid use or look for organic and natural options.
Get a water feature
Dripping water features give hummingbirds a spot to drink and bathe regularly to stay healthy.
Let spiders stay
Spider webs catch insects hummingbirds can feed on. Leave webs alone unless spread across feeder areas.
Reduce competition
Consider taking down other bird feeders that attract aggressive species that may deter hummingbirds.
Conclusion
In conclusion, placing multiple feeders around your yard is an excellent strategy for increasing hummingbird numbers based on evidence from scientific research and backyard observation. To maximize success, follow tips on proper feeder placement, cleaning, and maintenance. Time feeder availability with migration patterns in your area. Combine feeders with other efforts to provide quality habitat. With a little patience and experimentation, you can find the right feeder formula to bring more of these special birds into your green space.
