How do I keep larger birds away from my hummingbird feeder?

Hummingbird feeders provide a great way to attract these tiny, colorful birds to your yard. However, larger birds like sparrows, starlings, and even squirrels may also try to feed on the nectar, scaring away the hummingbirds. This can be frustrating, but there are some simple tips to deter larger birds and animals and allow the hummers to feed in peace.

Why Large Birds Are Attracted to Hummingbird Feeders

Larger birds are attracted to the sweet nectar in hummingbird feeders. This high-calorie food source is appealing to them, especially during migration or in winter when natural food sources are scarce. Birds like sparrows and starlings are aggressive and will scare away the smaller, more timid hummingbirds in order to access the feeder. Squirrels are also extremely determined and clever when it comes to stealing easy food.

Tips to Deter Larger Birds:

• Use a feeder with perches made for hummingbird feet. The tiny perches are too small for larger birds to perch on.
• Get a feeder with feeding ports that are too small for large birds to access.
• Place the feeder in an open area 10 feet or more from trees, fences or other launching points.
• Use a feeder with a weight-sensitive perch so only hummingbirds can activate the nectar flow.
• Consider using a moat-style water feeder, which surrounds the feeder with water to deter other flying or climbing animals.
• Install feeders on poles with baffles or slippery materials that animals cannot cling to.
• Use feeders with cage-like coverings to keep out larger birds.
• Coat feeder perches with hot pepper gel or spray to deter squirrels and birds.
• Take feeders inside at night when squirrels are most active.
• Use more than one feeder spread widely apart to reduce squabbling.
• Clean feeders regularly and change nectar every few days to discourage pests.

Nectar Recipes

The nectar solution in your feeder will also impact how attractive it is to nuisance birds. Follow these tips:

• Use a natural nectar recipe of just sugar and water, no food coloring or honey.
• Mix a ratio of 1 part sugar to 4 parts water for optimal nutrition.
• Avoid over-sweetened nectar, which is very tempting to large birds.
• Change nectar every 2-3 days, or when it looks cloudy.
• Clean feeders thoroughly before refilling to prevent mold.

Strategic Feeder Placement

Where and how you hang your feeder is key. Follow these placement tips:

• Hang feeders from tree branches, tall poles, or by wires or fishing line so they are visible but protected.
• Place feeders at least 10 feet from trees, fences, wires and other launching points.
• Face feeder ports towards open spaces, not covered areas.
• Elevate feeders to at least 5 feet high or higher.
• Separate multiple feeders widely to reduce squabbling.

Deterring Squirrels

Squirrels can be extremely persistent in accessing feeders. Here are some anti-squirrel techniques:

• Use baffles on poles and hang feeders on fishing line to prevent access.
• Apply hot pepper spray on poles and feeding ports.
• Install feeders with cage covers to block squirrels.
• Use feeders with weight-activated perches.
• Try models that close feeding ports when something heavy touches the perches.
• Coat perches with petroleum jelly to make them slippery.
• Sprinkle ground pepper, chili powder or paprika around feeders.
• Secure feeders with clips, wires or fishing line to prevent squirrels knocking them down.
• Take down feeders at night when squirrels are most active.

Hummingbird Feeder Styles to Deter Larger Birds

There are many great hummingbird feeder options designed specifically to deter larger pests. Here are some top styles:

Caged Feeders

Caged feeders have an outer wire enclosure that protects the inner nectar reservoir and feeding ports. Birds access the feeder through openings but squirrels and larger birds are blocked.

Moat Feeders

These feeders are surrounded by a water moat or reservoir. Hummingbirds can fly directly to the feeder but other animals are deterred by the water barrier.

Upside Down Feeders

The nectar reservoir on these models is inverted so the feeding ports point downwards. Only hummingbirds can comfortably feed at this awkward angle.

Shrouded Feeders

The feeding ports are concealed under a plastic shroud. Hummingbirds can insert their long beaks but larger birds cannot access the nectar.

Bottle Feeders

The plastic bottle shape limits larger birds perching on the feeder. Feeding ports are made for hummingbird beaks.

Weight-Activated Feeders

Perches are calibrated so only 2-3 grams of weight will tip them to activate the nectar flow. This blocks heavier animals.

Deterring Bees and Wasps

Bees, wasps and other flying insects are also attracted to the sugary nectar in hummingbird feeders. Here’s how to discourage them:

• Use a nectar mix that is one part sugar to four parts water. Insects prefer sweeter concentrations.
• Add a couple drops of vegetable oil to the nectar – this suffocates insects.
• Clean feeders thoroughly every few days to prevent sticky, fermented nectar build up.
• Store feeders in a freezer overnight to kill larvae and eggs.
• Install bee guards over feeder ports to prevent access.
• Use yellow-colored feeders which wasps avoid.
• Avoid placing feeders near flowers or food trash that attracts insects.
• Try using a feeder style with narrow, enclosed ports.

Conclusion

Attracting hummingbirds to your yard with feeders can be an extremely rewarding experience. But defending the feeders from larger birds and squirrels trying to steal the nectar can be a constant battle. Use deterrents like pepper applications, strategic placement, and restricted-access feeder designs. Maintain clean, properly balanced nectar and empty feeders each night when squirrels are active. With some thoughtful preparation, you can ensure your feeder satisfies tiny hummingbird appetites, not pests. Enjoy watching these amazing little birds thrive through the seasons by providing a safe, relaxing dining experience just for them.