How do you get a hummingbird to use a hand feeder?

Quick Answers

Here are some quick answers to common questions about getting hummingbirds to use hand feeders:

• Use a bright red feeder to attract hummingbirds.
• Fill the feeder with a nectar solution of 1 part sugar to 4 parts water.
• Hang the feeder in a visible location near natural food sources.
• Be patient, it may take a few days for hummingbirds to discover the feeder.
• Keep the feeder clean and full to encourage hummingbirds to return.
• Avoid using artificial sweeteners or food coloring in the nectar.
• Place multiple feeders around your yard to accommodate more hummingbirds.
• Sit quietly and observe the feeders to get hummingbirds used to your presence.

What Do Hummingbirds Like to Eat?

Hummingbirds get most of their nutrition from drinking nectar. Their long slender beaks and tongues are perfectly adapted for accessing the nectar hidden within flowers. Due to their incredibly high metabolism, hummingbirds must consume between 3,000 to 7,000 calories daily just to survive. This means they rely heavily on finding plentiful nectar sources.

When setting up a hand feeder to attract hummingbirds, it is important to mimic natural nectar as closely as possible. The ideal homemade nectar recipe is:

• 1 part white refined sugar
• 4 parts water

Do not use any of the following in a hummingbird nectar recipe:

• Brown sugar
• Honey
• Artificial sweeteners
• Food coloring

Table sugar provides the perfect nutritional balance of sucrose needed to sustain hummingbirds. Honey can promote dangerous fungal growth, while artificial sweeteners provide no nutritional value. Food dyes may even be toxic. Sticking to plain white sugar and water is best.

Choosing a Hummingbird Feeder

An ideal hummingbird feeder has the following features:

• Bright red coloring – attracts the attention of hummingbirds
• Narrow base – accommodates the long beaks of hummingbirds
• Multiple feeding ports – allows access for multiple birds
• Easy to clean and fill – encourages proper maintenance
• Ant moat design – prevents ants from reaching the nectar

Plastic and glass feeders are the most durable options. Make sure any metal components do not contain zinc, which can be toxic to hummingbirds.

Types of Hummingbird Feeders

Where to Place the Feeder

Location is important when putting out a hummingbird feeder. Follow these tips:

• Hang the feeder on a tree, post, or hook about 5 feet off the ground.
• Choose a shady spot so the nectar does not spoil as quickly.
• Near natural food and water sources such as gardens, orchards, or ponds.
• Close to trees, shrubs, or other perches for resting.
• Sheltered from wind and rain to prevent swinging and deterioration.
• In view of windows or seating areas for observation.

Avoid placing feeders directly in sunlight or in areas near bird feeders that larger birds may frequent.

Getting Hummingbirds to Find the Feeder

Be patient. It may take a few days or even weeks for hummingbirds to discover a new feeder in their territory. Here are some tips to speed up the process:

• Set out multiple feeders to increase visibility.
• Add a few drops of red food coloring to the nectar – this is only recommended initially to help attract their attention.
• Sit near the feeder to get the hummingbirds used to your presence.
• Plant bright flowers known to attract hummingbirds nearby.
• Set up a misting sprayer or dripper to mimic dripping nectar.
• Purchase a ready-made nectar product with added attractants.

Once hummingbirds find the feeder, be sure to keep it freshly stocked. They will remember reliable food sources and return frequently.

Maintaining the Feeder

To keep hummingbirds coming back, proper maintenance is essential:

• Cleanliness – Every 2-3 days, wash the feeder with hot water and replace old nectar. without regular cleaning, mold and fungus can thrive in the feeder.
• Nectar Level – Check nectar levels daily and refill as needed. Hummingbirds can drink up to twice their body weight per day.
• Ant Control – Use ant moats or smear petroleum jelly on hanging wires/poles to block ants.
• Bees – Consider using a bee guard to prevent bees from overtaking the feeder.
• Leaking – Frequently inspect feeders for leaks which lead to drips that attract insects.
• Spoilage – Replace nectar if it becomes cloudy or smells odd. In hot weather nectar spoils faster.

Take down feeders by early fall so hummingbirds naturally migrate. Leaving feeders up can prevent migration and leave birds vulnerable.

Common Problems and Solutions

Issues will occasionally arise with hummingbird feeders. Here are some common problems and how to address them:

Ants

Use an ant guard or apply petroleum jelly on hanging wires/poles to block their path to the nectar. Change the nectar more frequently to minimize sugar content that attracts ants.

Bees and Wasps

Purchase a bee guard attachment that only allows slender hummingbird beaks to access the nectar. Avoid brightly colored feeders and nectar with flavor additives that entice bees.

Moldy Nectar

Always dump out old nectar promptly and clean the feeder thoroughly before refilling. If mold reappears quickly, consider changing locations.

Leaking

Ensure all gaskets and base seals are intact. Disassemble and clean interior tube where nectar travels to remove any debris obstruction. Replace damaged or worn parts.

Not Attracting Birds

Add a few drops of red food coloring to the nectar temporarily. Relocate the feeder to a more optimal spot. Provide multiple feeder options and try different styles. Be patient!

Conclusion

Attracting hummingbirds to a new hand feeder requires some patience and work. The key elements are using an appropriate nectar mix, maintaining cleanliness, and locating the feeder strategically. With attention to care and maintenance, hummingbird feeders can provide hours of enjoyment observing these energetic tiny birds.

Some trial and error may be necessary to determine the best setup for your particular situation. Always avoid potentially harmful ingredients and cleaning agents. When in doubt, stick to the basics – fresh sugar-water, red coloring and a convenient placement near natural food sources. The hummingbirds will discover and reward your efforts!