Hummingbird feeders provide a wonderful way to attract these beautiful, tiny birds to your yard. However, ants are also attracted to the sugary nectar in hummingbird feeders. Ant traps can be an effective method for keeping ants away from hummingbird feeders without harming the hummingbirds.
Why are ants attracted to hummingbird feeders?
Ants are attracted to the sweet nectar in hummingbird feeders for the same reason that hummingbirds are – it provides them with food. Ants have a strong sense of smell and can detect sugary substances from a distance. Once ants discover a hummingbird feeder, they will recruit more ants to come feast on the nectar, allowing their colony to grow quickly.
In addition to the sugar, hummingbird nectar also contains some nutrients and proteins that ants enjoy. So hummingbird feeders are like an all-you-can-eat buffet for ants!
Problems caused by ants in hummingbird feeders
A large number of ants in hummingbird feeders can cause several issues:
- Ants will consume a lot of the nectar, depriving hummingbirds of nutrition.
- Ants leave behind dirt and debris that can mold and spoil the nectar.
- Ant secretions may contaminate the nectar.
- Hummingbirds do not like to feed around ants and may avoid the feeder.
In addition, some ant species are aggressive and may even attack hummingbirds trying to feed. So keeping ants away from your feeders allows hummingbirds to feed in peace.
Types of ant traps that work for hummingbird feeders
There are several types of ant traps that can be effective for keeping ants out of hummingbird feeders without harming the birds:
Borax ant traps
Borax contains boric acid which is toxic to ants. Mixing some borax with sugar water makes a bait that worker ants will bring back to the colony and eventually kill off the entire nest. Place these traps near hummingbird feeders.
Diatomaceous earth
Spreading diatomaceous earth around the base of hummingbird feeder poles creates a lethal barrier for ants. The sharp edges scratch ants’ exoskeletons causing dehydration. It is non-toxic to hummingbirds.
Tanglefoot paste
Applying a sticky substance like Tanglefoot around feeder poles prevents ants from being able to climb up. Reapply after rain to maintain effectiveness. Ensure it does not get on the feeder ports.
Vinegar traps
Small cups filled with apple cider vinegar can attract and drown ants. Add a drop of dish soap to break surface tension. Strategically place these around feeders.
| Type of Ant Trap | How It Works |
|---|---|
| Borax | Boric acid poisons ants |
| Diatomaceous Earth | Cuts ants’ exoskeletons causing dehydration |
| Tanglefoot Paste | Prevents ants from climbing |
| Vinegar Traps | Attracts and drowns ants |
Tips for using ant traps with hummingbird feeders
Here are some tips to use ant traps effectively and safely around your hummingbird feeders:
- Place traps several feet away from the feeders so hummingbirds do not come in contact with traps.
- Replenish baited traps regularly to maintain potency.
- Apply barrier traps like diatomaceous earth or Tanglefoot around poles and hangers, not directly on feeders.
- Clean feeders thoroughly before refilling to remove any ant pheromone trails.
- Use several different traps to target ants in multiples ways.
- Check that traps do not contain any ingredients toxic to hummingbirds.
- Relocate traps if hummingbirds seem wary of feeding around them.
Installing ant moats
One of the most effective ways to protect hummingbird feeders from ants is to install an ant moat. This is a water-filled barrier that prevents ants from reaching the feeder. Ants cannot swim and will not cross water. Some options are:
- Plant saucer – Place feeder pole in a wide plant saucer filled with water
- Suspension line – Hang feeder from a fishing line coated in grease
- Vortex feeder – Special feeder with water moat built into design
Be sure to refill water moats as needed and clean any debris regularly for proper functioning.
Natural repellents to deter ants
There are also some natural ant repellent options that can be used with hummingbird feeders:
Essential oils
Oils like peppermint, cinnamon, and citrus oils repel ants. Apply a small amount to feeder poles, hangers, or ground barriers.
Chalk or talcum powder
The fine particles of chalk and talcum powder irritate ants and absorb oils in their exoskeletons. Create barriers around feeders.
Cucumber peels
Ants dislike chemicals in cucumbers. Place fresh peels around feeder poles to deter ants.
Keeping feeders clean
Maintaining clean hummingbird feeders is crucial for minimizing ant intrusions. Follow these tips:
- Empty and clean feeders every few days with hot water
- Disassemble feeder parts regularly to remove nectar deposits
- Soak feeders in a dilute bleach solution weekly
- Let feeders dry fully before refilling
- Use bottle brushes to scrub inside feeding ports
- Rinse feeders well to eliminate cleaning product residue
Conclusion
Preventing ants from swarming hummingbird feeders takes some effort but is important for enjoying these special birds. Strategically placing ant traps and moats can effectively keep ants away without harming hummingbirds. Natural repellents and rigorous cleaning regimens also help deter ants. With a multi-pronged approach of trapping, blocking, repelling, and cleaning, you can stop ants from crashing the hummingbird party at your feeders!
