Hummingbirds are territorial creatures and will often try to dominate a feeder, preventing other hummingbirds from accessing the nectar. This can be frustrating for homeowners trying to attract multiple hummingbirds to their yard. Luckily, there are some simple tricks to discourage hummingbird bullying and allow equal feeder access.
Use multiple feeders
The easiest way to prevent one hummingbird from dominating a feeder is to provide multiple feeding stations spread out around your yard. This makes it more difficult for one bird to guard them all. Aim to have at least one feeder per hummingbird visiting your yard. Space the feeders at least 10 feet apart near trees, shrubs, or other natural cover to allow timid hummers to access the feeders without conflict. Having multiple feeders prevents long wait times at a single feeder when a dominant bird is feeding.
Recommended number of feeders
| Number of hummingbirds | Recommended feeders |
|---|---|
| 1-2 | 1 |
| 3-4 | 2 |
| 5-7 | 3 |
| 8-10 | 4 |
As you can see in the table, you’ll want to add another feeder for every 2-3 hummingbirds at your home. Watch to see if some hummingbirds get excluded from feeders and add more as needed.
Use feeder styles that accommodate multiple birds
The style of hummingbird feeder can also make a difference in preventing domination. Saucer-style feeders with multiple feeding ports allow more hummers to drink at once. Long trough-style feeders also allow multiple hummers to access nectar simultaneously. This reduces squabbles since hummers don’t have to wait their turn. Single-port feeders make it easier for one bird to monopolize the feeder. Using feeder styles that accommodate more birds naturally reduces bullying behaviors.
Recommended feeder types
| Best for multiple birds | Not ideal for multiple birds |
|---|---|
| Saucer or disk feeders | Tube feeders with single port |
| Long trough feeders | Glass bottle feeders |
| Cluster feeders | Light-up feeders |
Opt for the feeder styles in the left column if domination is an issue. Tube and bottle feeders with a single feeding port tend to have the most problems.
Use feeding shelves
Another tactic is to install a dedicated shelf or platform designed just for hummingbird feeders. Mount multiple feeders on a shelf spaced 10-12 inches apart. This prevents fighting since hummers have their own feeding territory. Wood, metal, and plastic shelves can be found or DIYed to neatly display multiple feeders. Position the shelf in a quiet spot of the yard away from high traffic areas.
Tips for feeding shelves
- Mount the shelf on a tree, post, or wall at eye level
- Space feeders at least 10 inches apart
- Include perches for resting near each feeder
- Mount in a shady spot protected from wind and rain
- Clean the shelf area regularly to prevent insect buildup
Feeding shelves are an attractive option that can cleanly accommodate many feeders and hummingbirds.
Use feeder moats
Another deterrent technique is to add a water-filled moat around hanging feeders. The moat creates a barrier that makes it more difficult for dominant hummingbirds to guard the feeder. Fill the moat with just enough water to reach the perches. Deep moats prevent hummingbirds from easily flying to the feeder. A 6 inch moat depth is ideal.
Tips for using moats
- Use a guard or collar that encircles the feeder
- Choose guards with perches so hummers can rest
- Monitor water level and top off as needed
- Change water weekly to prevent mosquito breeding
- Consider adding a dripper to auto-fill the moat
With a moat barrier in place, hummingbirds have to work harder to access the feeder, allowing other birds to sneak in for a drink.
Provide adequate nectar
When hummer feeders run low on nectar, competition understandably increases. Maintaining a consistent nectar supply reduces squabbling over the limited food source. Check feeders daily and refill nectar before it runs empty. Also clean feeders every few days to prevent fermentation and mold.
To encourage all birds to eat peacefully, keep feeders brimming with fresh nectar. General refilling guidelines are:
- Refill small feeders (under 8 oz) daily
- Refill large feeders (over 8 oz) every 2-3 days
- Change nectar completely weekly
- Clean feeders with a diluted vinegar solution
Consistent fresh nectar will minimize fighting and allow equal access for all.
Try territorial bird feeders
Specifically designed “territorial” feeders feature multiple feeding ports spaced far apart to create distinct dining areas. The separation establishes personal territories, preventing squabbles over food. These feeders are essentially multiple feeders joined as one unit, sometimes with “walls” dividing spaces.
Territorial feeders come in hanging and pole-mounted versions. The port spacing varies by model but is generally over 12 inches. Because territorial feeders provide defined feeding zones, dominant hummingbirds are less likely to guard the entire feeder.
Tips for using territorial feeders
- Look for durable plastic or glass construction
- Choose a feeder with 4-6 feeding ports
- Opt for covered/roofed feeders in rainy climates
- Include built-in perches near each port
- Hang or mount the feeder securely
Territorial feeders are a smart solution for areas with frequent hummingbird conflicts. The divided design allows peace at the buffet!
Use feeding stations
For the ultimate anti-bullying experience, install a dedicated hummingbird feeding station. These all-in-one stations combine multiple feeders, perches, and nectar reservoirs into one housing unit. The variety of feeders provides unlimited access from all angles.
Feeding stations commonly accommodate 4-8 feeders or more. As birds eat from the individual feeders, the nectar flows from the central reservoir to each port. Built-in perches give hummingbirds a place to rest their wings between sips. Some stations even include glass walls and skylights for an immersive viewing experience.
Benefits of feeding stations
- Provide space for many hummingbirds
- Minimize fighting over feeder access
- Create an attractive focal point in yard
- Allow easy viewing of hummingbirds up close
- Keep nectar supply consistent across all feeders
For absolute hummingbird harmony, a feeding station is the way to go. The all-inclusive setup will be buzzing with birds, not conflicts!
Use feeding timers
If one hummingbird is still preventing others from accessing a feeder, you can try using a timed feeder. These feeders can be programmed to open and close access to nectar at preset times. The dominant hummer can be allowed to feed during certain periods, then the feeder closes so other birds can have a turn.
Feeding timers are an advanced strategy best for extreme hummer bullies. When attempting this method:
- Program the timer for 3-4 hour cycles
- Allow the dominant hummer early access, then close feeder for other birds
- Watch feeder to see if access improves for timid hummers
- Adjust times as needed find a fair feeding schedule
With smart programming, timers can effectively ration feeder access and discourage territorial behavior.
Try a hummingbird buffer solution
Chemical deterrents are another option for stubborn feeder bullies. Specially formulated buffer solutions can be added to nectar to make it unpalatable for dominant hummers. After tasting the nasty nectar, the aggressive birds learn to avoid that feeder.
Use buffer cautiously and only if other methods fail. Switch feeding times and locations routinely so all birds get a turn at fresh nectar. As the bullies learn that feeder access changes, they become less defensive. Natural equilibrium at the feeders can be restored.
How to use feeder buffer
- Purchase buffer solution formulated for hummingbirds
- Follow package directions and mix into nectar
- Fill one feeder with buffered nectar and keep other feeders normal
- Observe how long it takes aggressive bird to avoid the nasty feeder
- After a few days, switch the buffer to a different feeder
- Continue rotating every 2-3 days to discourage territorial behavior
With strategic use of an unpleasant buffer solution, bossy hummers will be encouraged to share feeders politely!
Provide natural food sources
In addition to feeders, make sure your yard includes diverse flowering plants that hummingbirds love. Natural nectar from flowers provides an alternative food source. This helps minimize squabbling at feeders since hummers can get food elsewhere.
Plant native flowers and shrubs that bloom throughout spring, summer, and fall. Some top hummingbird favorites include:
- Bee balm
- Cardinal flower
- Columbine
- Trumpet vine
- Butterfly bush
- Impatiens
- Petunia
- Fuchsia
- Coral honeysuckle
- Sage
A mix of tubular blooms in red, orange, pink, and purple will draw hummingbirds to all areas of your landscape. Feeding from natural flowers can help ease competition at feeders.
Use feeder guards
Physical feeder guards are a simple way to give other birds a chance at nectar. A cage or mesh surrounding the feeder prevents dominant hummers from perching on or hovering directly by the ports. However, small openings in the guard still allow hummers to access the nectar.
Guards are easy to add to existing feeders using available DIY or ready-made options. Cylinder-shaped guards fit nicely around hanging feeders. For deck-mounted feeders, try using an inverted wire basket.
Tips for feeder guards
- Mesh size should be 1/2 to 1 inch openings
- Surround feeder loosely to allow access
- Use sturdy wire or plastic coated mesh
- Monitor to ensure hummers can reach nectar
- Clean guard periodically to remove debris
With a guard in place, assertive hummingbirds are prevented from totally dominating the feeder.
Supplement diet with fruit
In addition to nectar, hummingbirds enjoy eating small soft fruits and insects for essential nutrients. Providing supplemental fruits and bugs can distract territorial hummers from the feeders. They’ll spend more time hunting tasty treats elsewhere in your yard.
Try offering diced oranges, grapes, banana, melon, apples, and berries in a small shallow dish. Change fruit daily and clean dishes thoroughly to prevent spoilage. Overripe fruit works great for hummers. You can also install a fruit feeder specifically designed for hummers.
For protein, provide insects by planting flowers that attract bugs like bees, flies, gnats, and spiders. You can also fill mesh bags with mealworms or crickets and hang in the yard for hummers to find.
Benefits of fruit and insects
- Provide essential nutrients not in nectar
- Give hummers an additional food source
- Pull hummers away from guarded feeders
- Satisfy hummer appetite between nectar meals
- Fun and simple way to supplement diet
With plenty of fruits and bugs around, bossy hummers can chow down on something other than the communal feeder!
Use rain guards
During rainy weather, hummers can get extra territorial over a protected nectar source. Adding a rain guard to your feeder provides cover so more hummers can sip in comfort. Guards made of plastic, metal, or fiberglass slope downward to prevent water pooling.
Opt for a detachable guard that still allows easy cleaning and filling. Raise the guard a few inches above the feeder ports so hummers have room to maneuver. Guards that fully enclose the feeder are best to maximize rain protection.
Tips for rain guards
- Select a size that extends 4-6 inches beyond feeder
- Look for guards with ventilation to reduce moisture
- Use UV-resistant plastic for durability
- Clean regularly to prevent mold and algae
- Remove guard temporarily for thorough cleaning
A rain guard provides comfy dry dining for all during showers! Bossy hummers can’t monopolize a feeder as easily with a guard in place.
Conclusion
Hummingbirds are known for being territorial around feeders. But several effective techniques can minimize bossy behavior and allow equal feeder access. Providing multiple feeders, divider-style feeders, supplemental foods, and feeder guards are all great options. With a little thoughtful preparation, you can create a harmonious hummingbird feeding habitat for all to enjoy!
