Hummingbird feeders need to be hung in a location that is easy for hummingbirds to access. There are a few key factors to consider when deciding where and how to hang a hummingbird feeder:
Location
The feeder should be placed in an open area that allows hummingbirds to see it and approach it easily. Good locations include porches, patios, gardens, and yards. Avoid hanging the feeder directly under trees or shrubs where the hummingbirds may have difficulty spotting it. Select a location that gets some shade during the hottest parts of the day.
Height
Hang the feeder so the openings are at eye level for the hummingbirds. A height of 5-6 feet off the ground is typically recommended. This makes it easy for hummingbirds to feed, while making it harder for other animals like ants to access the nectar.
Accessibility
Make sure the area around the feeder is open enough for hummingbirds to fly freely without obstruction. Don’t hang it too close to walls or fences. Allow ample space so multiple birds can feed at once.
Protection from weather
Pick a protected spot that avoids direct wind and rain. Overhangs, porches, and covered patios are good choices. This keeps the nectar fresher longer.
What to Hang a Hummingbird Feeder From
There are several good options for hanging hummingbird feeders. The most common include:
Hanging plant hook
A curved plant hanging hook screwed into the eaves or ceiling of a porch makes it easy to hang the feeder. Ensure the hook is sturdy enough to hold the weight of a full feeder.
Shepherds hook
Shepherds hooks are long metal poles with curved hooks on the end installed into the ground. These let you position feeders in gardens or yards. Get a tall shepherds hook so you can hang the feeder at an optimal height.
Trees
You can hang feeders from tree branches using wire or rope. Pick a mature tree limb capable of holding the weight. Make sure no obstructing branches are in the way.
Tripod stand
For ground or deck placement, use a tall tripod stand with a hanger at the right height for the feeder. The three legs provide stability on uneven surfaces.
Pole and clamp mount
Pole mount kits include a long pole that stakes into the ground and an adjustable clamp to hold the feeder. You can also clamp mounts onto deck railings.
Suction cups
For windows and other smooth surfaces, adhesive suction cups with hooks allow you to hang lightweight feeders. Make sure the surface is clean.
Wire and rope
Simple wires or ropes can be used to hang feeders from tree branches, gutters, or overhangs. Use sturdy cord that won’t fray or snap.
Tips for Hanging Hummingbird Feeders
Follow these tips when hanging hummingbird feeders:
Use an S-hook
An S-hook makes it easy to remove the feeder for cleaning. Attach one end to the mounting and the other to the feeder hanger.
Keep it steady
Hummingbirds can struggle to feed from swaying feeders. Minimize movement by using stable mounts and sheltered spots.
Adjust the height
Observe your feeder once hung and adjust up or down so the feeding ports are at the right level for the hummingbirds.
Make it visible
Use bright colored feeders that attract hummingbirds from a distance. Red is a favorite color of hummingbirds.
Allow easy filling
When mounting, make sure you can easily access the feeder to refill it with nectar as needed.
Prevent damage
Select durable feeders that won’t crack or leak when hung outdoors and position away from tree sap.
Keep it clean
Hose down feeders occasionally and replace nectar regularly to keep things sanitary for hummingbirds.
Where Not to Hang a Hummingbird Feeder
Avoid these problematic spots when positioning your feeder:
Areas with obstructed access
Don’t hang feeders surrounded by dense trees, vines or shrubs that impede hummingbird flight and access.
Near wasp nests
Feeders placed too close to wasp nests will attract these aggressive insects. Monitor for nests and relocate your feeder if needed.
Under eaves and roof overhangs
Rain dripping from roofs can spoil nectar faster by diluting it. The drips also startle feeding hummingbirds.
Near bright lights
Hummingbirds may avoid feeders illuminated brightly at night by security lights or lamps. Use a shaded spot.
Beside windows and mirrors
Reflections from glass confuse hummingbirds and may deter them from approaching the feeder.
On wobbly mounts
Insecure, flimsy mounts like chain links or weak branches result in a swinging, unstable feeder.
Areas with heavy ants
Ants will overrun nectar in feeders placed too close to heavy ant traffic areas.
Best Materials to Hang Hummingbird Feeders From
These materials work well for hanging hummingbird feeders securely:
Sturdy metal hooks
Iron or steel shepherds hooks and robust hanging hooks securely hold feeders and resist rust.
Durable nylon or braided wire
For hanging feeders from trees, weather-resistant wires and ropes avoid fraying or degradation in the elements.
Thick snapped wood poles
Snapped hardwood poles 3-4 inches thick can be sunk in the ground to hang multiple feeders from.
Wrought iron plant stands
Ornate wrought iron stands with integrated hooks or hangers keep feeders elevated in style.
Strong plastic poles
Rigid plastic poles won’t rot and splinter like wood. Look for UV-resistant types.
Sturdy plastic clamp mounts
Reinforced polymer mount clamps grip railings and poles without damaging them.
Smooth-barked trees
Healthy live trees with smooth bark like birch or maple minimize sap and permit easy mounting.
Conclusion
The ideal hummingbird feeder hanging location is an open spot about 5-6 feet off the ground with shade coverage. Hanging options include hooks, poles, tripods, and stable tree branches. Ensure the feeder hangs freely in the air with no obstructions that impede hummingbird access. Use sturdy hooks, wires, poles, and mounts so the feeder does not excessively swing or sway. Position it so you can easily reach it to refill the nectar and keep it clean. Avoid placing feeders directly under roofs where rain can contaminate the nectar. With a properly positioned feeder on a secure mount, you will provide your local hummingbirds with an inviting, accessible spot to feed.
