A HummViewer is a special device designed specifically for observing hummingbirds up close. Hummingbirds are some of the smallest and most elusive birds, moving incredibly fast and feeding on flower nectar through their long, slender beaks. This makes them challenging for birders and nature enthusiasts to spot and observe. The HummViewer aims to help with that by attracting hummingbirds to a steady, quality food source and providing an optimal viewing window so you can watch them comfortably from your home.
What does a HummViewer do?
The main function of a HummViewer is to feed and draw in hummingbirds consistently so they can be viewed easily. It does this through a few key features:
- Built-in feeding ports – The HummViewer has several built-in nectar feeding ports that provide access to sugar water, a hummingbird favorite.
- Perches – There are perches surrounding the feeder ports so hummingbirds have a place to comfortably sit and drink the nectar.
- Dome viewing window – A clear plastic dome allows for 360 degree visibility so you can see hummingbirds from any angle as they come to feed.
- Shelter – The dome and perch area provide some shelter from the elements so hummingbirds are protected.
By bringing hummingbirds to a central feeding location and making it easy to observe them up close while protected, the HummViewer enables people to conveniently watch and study hummingbird behavior and physiology right from places like their porch or kitchen.
Key Features and Components
Here are some of the core features and parts that make up a HummViewer:
Dome Viewing Window
This is a clear plastic dome that allows for unobstructed 360 degree viewing of the hummingbirds from any angle as they feed and perch. It is an optimal shape and material that doesn’t obstruct visibility while still providing shelter.
Built-In Feeding Ports
There are several built-in nectar feeding ports, often with red streaks that attract hummingbirds. This provides steady access to sugar water that hummingbirds love. The ports allow for easy filling and cleaning too.
Perches
Small perches or feeding stations are positioned around the feeding ports so hummingbirds can comfortably perch while drinking.
Nectar Reservoir
This is a chamber that holds the nectar or sugar water that gradually flows to the feeding ports. It’s easy to fill and clean.
Mounting Hook
Used to hang the feeder from a branch or hook. Allows for easy mounting and viewing.
Cleaning Brush
A small brush is included to make cleaning excess sugar water and debris from the feeding ports and perches simple. Keeping things clean reduces any spread of disease between birds.
Benefits of Using a HummViewer
There are many advantages to using a specialty hummingbird viewing device like the HummViewer:
Get Up Close Views of Hummingbirds
The viewing dome places you directly in the action so you can observe hummingbirds like never before as they come within feet of you to feed.
See Details and Behavior Not Visible at a Distance
The proximity to the birds allows you to see intricacies of anatomy, feeding behaviors, and interaction that you wouldn’t be able to from farther away. Things like tongue darting become visible.
Ability to Photograph and Film
You can capture incredible photos and video footage of hummingbirds by being so close with an unobstructed view. Great for nature photographers.
Provides Shelter and Protection
The dome provides a sheltered spot for hummingbirds to drink and feed with protection from rain and wind.
Minimal Disturbance to Birds
The clear plastic dome allows you to watch quietly without disturbing them as much as if you were out in the open.
Attracts Hummingbirds
By offering a steady nectar food source with perches, it draws in hummingbirds regularly to view versus waiting for them to randomly visit.
Easy to Use
HummViewers are designed to be easy to fill, clean, mount, and maintain so anyone can use them.
Common Questions About HummViewers
How do you use a HummViewer?
Using a HummViewer is simple. First, fill the nectar reservoir with a sugar-water mixture – usually 1 part sugar to 4 parts water. The sugar ratio can be adjusted based on your needs. Hang the feeder in a desired spot, preferably one that gets sunlight and is away from excessive wind. Keep the nectar reservoir filled and the feeder ports clean. Then just wait nearby for hummingbirds to discover it! Using a comfortable chair helps.
What is the best place to mount a HummViewer?
Look for a location that gets good sunlight exposure and is somewhat sheltered from wind. Facing areas where you have existing flowers or feeders that attract hummingbirds already is beneficial. Patios, porches, under eaves, and balconies are great choices. Ensure it is hung securely.
How long does it take to attract hummingbirds?
It may take a few days to a few weeks for hummingbirds to discover the feeder. But once they do, they will return continuously given a reliable food source. Consider using additional methods like running water to help grab their attention at first.
How often do you need to clean a HummViewer?
To keep your hummingbirds healthy, thoroughly clean the feeder about every 5-7 days. Use a mix of 10 parts water to 1 part vinegar and rinse all parts well. This prevents harmful bacteria or fungus from accumulating.
What food do hummingbirds like best?
Hummingbirds love the 20% sugar content of natural flower nectar. Mimicking that ratio by mixing 1 part white sugar with 4 parts water makes an ideal homemade nectar for your HummViewer. Boiling the water first allows the sugar to dissolve fully. No food coloring is needed.
Tips for Getting the Most Out of Your HummViewer
Here are some tips for maximizing your hummingbird viewing experience:
- Move slowly and talk softly around the HummViewer so you don’t startle the birds.
- Keep a journal of sightings and behavior observations.
- Experiment with different nectar mixes – some birds may prefer slightly weaker or stronger.
- Supplement with additional feeders and fresh flowers around your property.
- Set up muliple HummViewers to get views from different vantage points.
- Take great photos! Practice your hummingbird photography skills.
- Be patient – sometimes it takes time for birds to adjust to a new feeder.
- Consider adding a HummViewer cleaning kit for convenience.
- Use a red dye in your nectar periodically to help attract birds.
With a quality HummViewer and these tips, you’ll be observing gorgeous hummingbirds up-close in no time!
Conclusion
A HummViewer is specialty hummingbird feeder that uses features like a dome viewing window, built-in feeding ports, perches, and nectar reservoir to attract hummingbirds for easy up-close observation and photography. The benefits include getting detailed views of anatomy and behavior, capturing great photos and videos, and providing a steady food source to reliably draw in hummingbirds so you can observe them comfortably from your own home. With a few setup and placement tips, the HummViewer provides an exciting way to watch gorgeous, tiny hummingbirds like never before. If you want to easily observe these magical birds, a quality HummViewer is the way to go.