Yes, there are several ant proof hummingbird feeders available on the market that can help deter ants from getting into the nectar. Ants can be a tricky problem for hummingbird enthusiasts trying to offer a safe feeding space for their winged visitors. The good news is manufacturers have developed clever solutions to help prevent ants from invading feeders.
Why Use an Ant Proof Feeder?
Providing hummingbirds with a reliable food source is key to attracting them to your yard or garden. Hummingbirds get most of their nutrition from flower nectar and tree sap. In the wild, they are constantly on the move seeking out their next meal. An ant proof feeder allows them easy access to the sugary solution they need to thrive.
However, ants are also attracted to the sweet nectar in hummingbird feeders. When ants invade a feeder, they can quickly contaminate the nectar with their droppings and debris. Ants are also aggressive, and may actually attack and harm hummingbirds attempting to feed. An ant moat or other deterrent helps keep ants away, ensuring hummingbirds have a clean, safe place to eat.
Dangers of Ants at Feeders
There are a few specific dangers ants at feeders can pose to hummingbirds:
- Bacterial contamination – Ants walking through nectar can spread bacteria with their feet that can make birds sick.
- Aggression – Some ant species may bite or attack hummingbirds, making them unwilling to feed.
- Nectar theft – Ants can drink large amounts of nectar, depriving hummingbirds of nutrition.
- Nest invasion – Ants might follow feeder tubes back to hummingbird nests and invade them.
By keeping ants away, ant proof feeders allow hummingbirds to feed safely and gain the full nutritional benefits.
Types of Ant Proof Feeders
There are a few common mechanisms feeders use to prevent ants from reaching the nectar:
Ant Moats
Ant moat feeders have a water reservoir that surrounds the feeder hanger or ports. The ants have to cross the water to reach the nectar, and most are unable or unwilling to swim. The water acts as a barrier. Moats are often paired with other features like slippery hangers.
Slippery Poles & Hangers
Feeders with a slippery powder coating on the hanger prevent ants from being able to grip the surface. The powdery substance causes them to slide down the pole, away from the nectar access points. Vaseline is sometimes used on simple pole feeders.
Internal Baffles
Some feeders have internal baffles that block access to the openings where ants could reach the nectar. The openings are sized so hummingbirds can still comfortably feed. The baffles guide hummingbird tongues to the nectar while shutting out ants.
Elevated Feeding Ports
On some feeder models, the feeding ports are elevated above the access point ants would use to reach the nectar reservoir or basin. The distance makes it very difficult for ants to be able to access the ports. Some designs require ants to crawl upside down to reach the ports.
Reviews of Top Ant Proof Feeders
Here are reviews of some of the most popular and effective ant proof hummingbird feeders on the market:
Aspects HummZinger Excel
This feeder uses an integrated a moat encircling the nectar basin reservoir. The water prevents crawling insects from being able to access the nectar. The sleek contemporary design is made of durable glass and holds up to 8 ounces of nectar. It’s easy to clean and fills from the top. There are four flower shaped feeding ports. The Aspects HummZinger Excel is a top choice for deterring ants.
Perky Pet Ant Guard
The Perky Pet Ant Guard has a unique design that places the feeding ports up on a raised daisy shaped dome away from the base where ants would enter. Nectar is stored in the reservoir at the bottom and fed up to the ports through interior tubes. The system prevents ants from getting close to the nectar access points. The feeder has a 10 ounce capacity with 8 feeding ports. The plastic construction is durable and tinted red to attract hummingbirds.
First Nature Hummingbird Flower
This feeder has a 16 ounce nectar capacity in a simple, elegant blown glass construction. Integrated yellow and orange flower designs appeal to hummingbirds. The nectar basin is suspended below the feeding ports by a slim hanging rod. A slippery coating on the rod prevents ants from being able to climb up to the nectar access area. The flower-shaped feeding area has 10 small ports. This feeder is an affordable and attractive option.
Aspects 398 Hummzinger Ultra
With a generous 12 oz nectar capacity, this feeder provides ample, easy feeding access for hummingbirds, while deterring ants with a water moat system. The moat basin catches drips and prevents crawling insects from crossing over to the feeding ports and nectar reservoir. The ports are elevated above the moat basin on a fitted black metal cover. There are four feeding stations spaced around the basin. Made of durable glass, this feeder will provide seasons of service.
How Ant Proof Feeders Work
Ant proof feeders use physical barriers and other techniques to prevent ants and other insects from being able to climb on and access the nectar feeding ports and interior chambers. Here’s an overview of how the different types of anti-ant feeders work:
Ant Moats
Ant moats work by creating a water barrier that completely surrounds the feeder hanger, reservoir, and ports. Ants that try to access the feeder have to cross through the water. Most ant species are unable or reluctant to cross through water. The moat cuts off their physical ability to reach the nectar access points.
Slippery Hangers & Poles
Slippery powder coatings on hangers and poles change the surface texture so ants are unable to grip and climb up. Ant feet tend to slide across the slippery coating, preventing them from being able to scale up to the nectar access points. Oils like mineral oil, cooking spray, and vaseline can be used to create a slippery barrier on simple feeder poles.
Internal Baffles
Internal baffle structures limit ant access to nectar while allowing hummingbird beaks and tongues to reach the nectar. The baffles physically block ant entry while channeling hummingbird tongues to the openings. The baffles are designed to match hummingbird anatomy so they can access nectar easily.
Elevated Feeding Ports
By elevating the feeding ports above the base and reservoir, ants are blocked from being able to reach the ports. Ants would need to be able to crawl upside down on the underside of the feeder roof or enclosure to reach the ports. The ports hang below the roof area, beyond the ants’ reach. Gravity and their anatomy prevents them from accessing nectar.
| Type | How it Works |
|---|---|
| Ant Moat | Water barrier blocks ant crossing |
| Slippery Hanger/Pole | Prevents ants from gripping/climbing |
| Internal Baffles | Blocks ants while allowing hummingbird access |
| Elevated Feeding Ports | Ports located beyond ants’ reach |
DIY Ant Proof Hummingbird Feeders
It’s possible to make your own ant proof feeder at home with common household materials. Here are some DIY approaches you can try:
Altoid Tins
Small mint tins can be converted to mini-feeders. Attach an eye screw to the side for hanging. Coat the screw and bottom edges with petroleum jelly. Cut X slits in the domed lid and turn inward to make nectar ports. The jelly prevents ants on the outside while allowing access for hummingbird beaks.
Cooking Oil Moats
On simple feeders, apply a band of cooking oil around the hanging wire and pole below the nectar reservoir. The oil forms a barrier to block ants. Reapply after rain to maintain efficacy. Choose cooking oils like vegetable or olive oil that will not harm birds.
Bottle Feeders
Cut the bottom off a clear plastic soda or water bottle to make a hummingbird feeder bottle. Invert and push back into the cut bottom section to create a suspended nectar chamber. The nipple cap can be pierced for feeding access. Ants will not be able to pass the bottle rim to reach the nectar reservoir.
Petri Dish Ports
Use laboratory petri dishes hung with their openings facing downward as feeding ports on handmade feeders. The shallow depth blocks ants while hummingbirds can easily insert their beaks and tongues up into the dishes for feeding. The glass or plastic dishes can be hung with wire.
Tips for Using Ant Proof Feeders
Follow these tips to get the most out of your ant proof hummingbird feeder:
- Clean the feeder thoroughly before first use to remove any residue from manufacturing.
- Rinse and refill ant moats with fresh water whenever refilling the nectar to prevent algae growth.
- Reapply slippery coatings on rods and hangers if they appear to be wearing off over time.
- Check that internal baffles are aligned properly so hummingbird tongues can access nectar.
- Select a shady location to hang the feeder to help deter ants.
- Consider using ant bait traps around your yard to reduce local ant populations.
- Wipe down external surfaces of the feeder periodically to remove drips and debris that could allow ants to access.
Conclusion
Ant proof hummingbird feeders utilize clever designs like moats, slippery surfaces, interior baffles, and elevated ports to prevent ants from stealing nectar while allowing hummingbird access. Select a feeder style that will be easy for you to maintain and clean. With an ant proof feeder, you can be sure your nectar will go to attracting and nourishing hummingbirds rather than getting consumed by invasive ants. Provide your winged visitors with a safe, nourishing feeding experience.
