Hummingbird feeders allow people to easily feed hummingbirds in their yards or gardens. There are many different types of hummingbird feeders, but top fill feeders are one of the most popular and convenient options. As the name suggests, top fill hummingbird feeders are designed so you can easily pour nectar into the feeder from the top without having to take it apart. This allows for quick, mess-free filling and cleaning. But how exactly does a top fill hummingbird feeder work? Here we’ll take a closer look at the design and functionality of top fill feeders.
Reservoir Design
The key design element of a top fill hummingbird feeder is the nectar reservoir. This is a container built into the top of the feeder that holds the sugary liquid nectar. Reservoirs are usually made of glass or durable plastic so they don’t crack or warp over time. They often have a wide open mouth or removable lid so you can easily pour nectar in from the top. The reservoir may hold anywhere from 8 to 64 ounces of nectar depending on the size and style of the feeder. This ample capacity means you can fill the feeder less frequently.
Feeding Ports
The nectar stored in the reservoir flows down into the lower base of the feeder through a tube or channel. Here it pools up into built-in feeding ports. Feeding ports are the small openings where hummingbirds insert their long beaks and tongues to sip up nectar. Most feeders have between 2 to 12 feeding ports, allowing multiple hummingbirds to feed at once. The ports are surrounded by colored plastic “flowers” or trim that helps attract the hummingbirds. They often have a moat or basin around each port to catch drips and leaks.
Perch
Hummingbirds do not have strong feet and legs like other birds. So they cannot perch on branches or edges to feed. Top fill feeders have perches attached for the hummingbirds to rest on. The perches may be simple plastic rods or rings. Or they may be more decorative branches, leaves, or vines. Perches are positioned near the feeding ports so the hummingbirds can easily maneuver to sip nectar. The perches give them a place to conveniently rest their wings as they eat.
Sealing Mechanism
One challenge with top fill hummingbird feeders is preventing leaks. As the feeder hangs upside down, gravity causes the liquid nectar to flow out. Top fill feeders have sealing mechanisms to control the nectar flow so it only comes out through the feeding ports. There are a few different mechanisms used:
– Vacuum seal – A vacuum is created inside the feeder so no air can enter and cause drips. The hummingbird’s beak tips break the vacuum when feeding.
– Floating discs – Plastic discs float at the top of the nectar and sink down to block ports when not in use. The hummingbird’s beak pushes the disc up to access the nectar.
– Trap doors – Each port has a tiny trap door that only opens when the hummingbird inserts its beak. This prevents nectar from flowing out on its own.
– Tongue tubes – Long, narrow tubes extend down from each port. The hummingbird’s tongue reaches all the way down the tube to draw up nectar.
Anti-Ant Moats
One problem with outdoor feeders is ants trying to reach the nectar. Top fill feeders often have anti-ant moats built around the reservoir and feeding ports. These are empty spaces filled with air or oil that prevent ants from being able to reach the nectar. The smooth surfaces make it hard for them to cross over to the feeding area.
Removable Parts
While the nectar reservoir can be conveniently filled from the top, other parts of the feeder may need to be taken apart for cleaning. Top fill feeders often have removable bases, feeding port assemblies, and perches that unscrew or detach easily from the main reservoir. This allows you to thoroughly clean the feeder and prevent mold, bacteria, and other buildup.
Nectar Preparation
Top fill hummingbird feeders are designed for homemade nectar. While you can purchase premade nectar, it is just as simple to make your own. Here is a typical recipe:
– 1 part white granulated sugar
– 4 parts water
Boil the water first, then stir in the sugar until fully dissolved. Let cool before pouring into the feeder. Never use honey, brown sugar, or artificial sweeteners which can harm hummingbirds. The nectar concentrate can be stored in the refrigerator for 1-2 weeks.
Hanging the Feeder
Once filled with nectar, top fill feeders are ready to be hung outside. Look for a shady spot near trees, flowers, or shrubs that hummingbirds frequent. Use an S-hook or other hanger to hang the feeder from a branch, post, hook, or shepherd’s hook. Place the feeder at eye level or slightly above so the hummingbirds can easily feed. Avoid direct sunlight which can cause the nectar to ferment faster. Periodically clean the feeder and replace the nectar to keep it fresh.
Advantages
Top fill hummingbird feeders have several advantages:
– Easy to fill – No need to take the feeder apart. Just pour nectar directly into the reservoir.
– Large capacity – Holds substantial amounts of nectar so refilling is less frequent.
– Tight seal – Special sealing prevents messy leaks and drips.
– Easy cleaning – Removable pieces allow thorough cleaning to prevent mold.
– Convenient feeding – Multiple feeding ports and perches allow several hummingbirds to feed at once.
Popular Styles and Models
There are many different styles and models of top fill hummingbird feeders to choose from. Here are some popular options:
Glass reservoir feeders – These have a clear glass reservoir so you can easily see the nectar level. Popular styles include:
– Perky-Pet 212CP Clear Glass Top Fill Hummingbird Feeder
– More Birds Ruby Hummingbird Feeder
– Aspects Jewel Box Window Hummingbird Feeder
Plastic reservoir feeders – Made from durable, shatter-proof plastic. Models include:
– First Nature 16 ounce Hummingbird Feeder
– Perky-Pet 782LP Panorama Top Fill Hummingbird Feeder
– Birds Choice Rain Guard Oval Top Fill Hummingbird Feeder
Copper finish feeders – Have a beautiful copper color with bronze accents. Such as:
– CopperRain Hummingbird Feeder by Hanizsch
– allotree Hanging Copper Hummingbird Feeder
– BlueCoral Copper Top Fill Hummingbird Feeder
Glass globe feeders – Feature a round glass nectar reservoir shaped like a globe or sphere. For instance:
– Kathson Glass Globe Hummingbird Feeder
– Perky-PetGFP215 Glass Globe Hummingbird Feeder
– Sterling International 9309 Copper Glass Globe Feeder
Tips for Use
Here are some helpful tips for successfully using a top fill hummingbird feeder:
– Use a 1:4 ratio of sugar to water for homemade nectar. Never use honey, artificial sweeteners, or food coloring.
– Clean the feeder every 5-7 days with a mild dish soap and water solution. Rinse thoroughly.
– Check that seals, gaskets, and O-rings are in good condition to prevent leaks. Replace any worn parts.
– Fill the reservoir to capacity to allow hummingbirds to feed longer between refills.
– Make sure to fully tighten and close the reservoir lid after filling to keep the nectar from dripping or spilling.
– Periodically change the nectar, even if the feeder is not empty. Nectar can ferment and spoil.
– Consider bringing the feeder inside at night or during cold weather so the nectar doesn’t freeze.
Troubleshooting
Here are some common troubleshooting tips for top fill hummingbird feeders:
Cloudy nectar – This is a sign of spoilage or fermentation. Empty the feeder, clean, and refill with fresh nectar.
Ants in the feeder – Use hot water to wash the feeder. Apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly on hanging wires to block ants.
Leaking nectar – Make sure the lid is fully tightened. Check that seals and gaskets are intact. Clean any clogged feeding ports.
Black mold – This is common in humid climates. Use a bleach solution to thoroughly clean the feeder and dry well before refilling.
Cracked Reservoir – Exposure to extreme temperature fluctuations can cause glass reservoirs to crack. Replace with a shatter-proof plastic reservoir.
Low hummingbird traffic – Try moving the feeder to a more visible location or using red coloring on the feeding ports. The color red attracts hummingbirds.
Bee infestation – Bees can clog the ports seeking nectar. Use a feeder with bee guards or move the feeder farther from bee activity.
Conclusion
Top fill hummingbird feeders provide an easy, convenient way to supplement nutrition for hummingbirds right in your yard. The innovative reservoir design allows for quick nectar refills through the top without taking the feeder apart. Built-in sealing mechanisms, specialized feeding ports with perches, and removable pieces for cleaning allow top fill feeders to operate with minimal mess and maintenance. Positioning the feeder properly and following nectar preparation tips will help attract beautiful hummingbirds for an enjoyable wildlife experience. When used properly, a quality top fill hummingbird feeder will provide hours of entertainment watching these energetic, hovering birds thrive through multiple seasons.