The Short Answer
It is generally recommended to place hummingbird feeders in shaded areas out of direct sunlight. However, some sun exposure is okay as long as the nectar does not overheat or develop mold. Here are some quick tips:
– Position feeders under tree cover or porch overhangs to provide shade and prevent overheating.
– Choose feeders with built-in perches, as these help shade the nectar.
– Use a nectar guard or bee guard to block sunlight and keep insects out.
– Bring feeders inside or into the shade during the hottest part of the day.
– Change the nectar more frequently on feeders in sunnier spots.
– Avoid areas with reflected sunlight, like against windows or metal surfaces.
So while limited sun is fine, it’s best to provide hummingbirds with shady areas where they can feed comfortably. Proper placement will also help maintain fresh nectar. Monitor your feeders and make adjustments as needed throughout the seasons.
Why Sunlight Can Be Problematic for Hummingbird Feeders
There are a few reasons why prolonged sunlight exposure can be an issue for hummingbird feeders:
Overheating the Nectar
One of the biggest concerns is overheating the nectar. Hummingbirds prefer nectar temperatures between 60-80°F. However, direct sun can quickly cause nectar to exceed these temperatures.
Overheated nectar loses nutritional value, tastes bad, and can harm hummingbirds. It becomes filled with bacteria and molds, making birds sick. Hot nectar also evaporates faster, causing the sugar concentration to become dangerously high.
Promoting Bacterial and Fungal Growth
Heat and sunlight promote the growth of bacteria, yeasts, and molds in nectar. Sun exposure speeds up microbial proliferation, causing spoiled nectar.
Some of the common microbes found in feeders include:
- Bacillus – A bacteria that forms ropey strands in nectar.
- Candida – A yeast that makes nectar appear cloudy.
- Aspergillus – A fungus that forms hair-like black streaks.
Consuming contaminated nectar can make hummingbirds sick. Microbes thrive best between temperatures of 70-115°F, right in the danger zone for sun-heated nectar. Keeping feeders shaded inhibits microbial blooms.
Increased Evaporation
Heat from the sun causes nectar to evaporate faster, resulting in thicker, overly concentrated sugar. This can cause digestive issues and kidney failure in hummingbirds when they consume nectar that is too sugary.
High temperatures and airflow accelerate evaporation. So feeders placed in sunny, windy spots lose nectar quickly and become too concentrated. Keeping feeders shaded helps regulate nectar density and prevents excess evaporation.
Problems With Pest Insects
Direct sun attracts unwanted bees, wasps, and ants to the nectar. These aggressive pests compete with hummingbirds for feeders, and some can even harm the birds.
Greater pest presence leads to more contamination of the nectar too. Keeping feeders in shaded spots helps deter these nuisance insects.
Tips for Putting Feeders in Moderate Sunlight
While prolonged sun exposure is not ideal, hummingbird feeders do not necessarily need to be kept in complete shade at all times. Here are some tips for placing feeders in locations with moderate sunlight:
Pick Shaded Spots for Most of the Day
Select locations that will only get a few hours of direct morning or evening sun at most. Avoid spots with sun exposure during the hottest parts of the day. Dappled sun through tree leaves is better than direct afternoon rays.
Use Built-In Perches for Shade
Choose feeder styles with a canopy, roof, or perches that help provide shade over the nectar reservoir. Perches give hummingbirds a shady spot to rest while feeding.
Add a Nectar Guard
Nectar guards or bee guards help block sunlight while keeping insects out. They are affordable accessories that attach easily onto feeder ports. Choose guards with ventilation to prevent excessive heat buildup.
Supplement with Other Shaded Feeders
Have additional feeders in fully shaded areas to give hummingbirds a respite from the sun. Consider placing one shady feeder for every feeder that gets 2-3 hours of sun.
Change Nectar More Frequently
Expect to change the nectar every 2-3 days in feeders with sun exposure rather than the usual 5-7 days. More frequent nectar replacement lowers contamination risks.
Monitor Temperature and Sweetness
Check that the nectar temperature stays under 80°F and taste-test the sweetness level if possible. Dilute thickened nectar by adding more water.
Bring Inside During Hot Days
If there is an extreme heat advisory or the sun is intensely hot, temporarily move feeders to a shaded patio or inside by a window. Rotating feeder locations helps prevent overheating.
Avoid Window Reflections
Do not place feeders directly against windows, as the reflected sunlight essentially doubles the sun exposure. Similarly, avoid positions next to reflective metals or glass.
Ideal Shaded Locations for Hummingbird Feeders
Here are some great shaded spots to consider when putting up hummingbird feeders:
Under Tree Cover
Hang feeders from the branches of trees to benefit from the natural shade. Avoid lower branches where squirrels can interfere. Oak, maple, ash, and pine provide nice canopy coverage.
Underneath Porch Roofs
The overhanging roof of a front or back porch is perfect for keeping feeders shaded. Install hanging hooks on the porch ceiling to display feeders.
In Covered Garden Structures
Place feeders under gazebos, pergolas, trellises, or pavilions in the garden. You can even position them in open sheds or barns.
Beside Shrubs or Plants
Use taller shrubs, ferns, flowering plants, etc. as “living umbrellas” to shade feeders. Avoid prickly cacti or venomous plants.
Near Shady Garden Features
Site feeders near decorative features like shade trees, boulders, walls, fences, or benches that block sun exposure.
On Covered Decks or Patios
Dedicated sun decks are great for placing shaded feeders. Select a corner away from direct sunlight to avoid reflections.
Under Overhangs and Eaves
Position feeders under roof eaves, balconies, awnings, or other architectural overhangs on homes. South facing spots work best.
| Location | Benefits |
|---|---|
| Trees | Natural canopy shade |
| Porch | Protected by roof overhang |
| Garden structures | Provide shade and elevation |
| Shrubs/plants | “Living umbrella” shade source |
| Garden features | Boulders, walls block sun |
| Covered patio/deck | Outdoor shade structure |
| Overhangs | Roof eaves and balconies |
Choosing the Right Feeders to Put in Sunny Areas
If you must place feeders in partially sunny areas, select styles designed to minimize sun exposure:
Perch Feeders
Feeders with a built-in perch help shade the nectar reservoir below while giving hummingbirds a place to rest. Choose perches that are wide enough to fully block the sun.
Canopy/Roof Feeders
Feeders with a plastic or metal roof provide excellent sun protection while keeping rain off the nectar. Some have transparent roofs for partial shade.
Opaque Container Feeders
Feeders made of glass or opaque plastics help block light compared to clear containers. Avoid clear jars or bottles, which get too hot.
Nectar Guards
These accessory ports attach to feeders to shield nectar. Look for ventilated, conical guards that provide shade while allowing airflow.
Suspension Feeders
Hanging feeders with a reservoir suspended below the perch area keep sun away from nectar. Position them under foliage for added shade.
| Feeder Type | Sun Protection Ability |
|---|---|
| Perch feeders | Moderate – Good |
| Canopy/roof feeders | Excellent |
| Opaque containers | Good |
| Nectar guards | Moderate |
| Suspension feeders | Good |
Focus on feeders made of weather-resistant materials like plastic, metal, or glass when placing them in sunny areas. Avoid cheap, thin plastic that can warp.
Conclusion
While hummingbirds prefer shaded feeders, a little sun is generally fine. Place feeders in locations with morning or evening sun only, and provide ample additional shaded feeders. Use feeder styles that offer built-in sun protection. Monitor nectar temperature and watch for signs of spoilage. Adjust feeder placements as needed to ensure hummingbirds have a healthy, comfortable feeding experience. With some strategic placement and careful observation, you can let your feeders get a little sunlight while keeping hummingbirds happy and fed.
