Hanging a hummingbird feeder properly is crucial to attracting hummingbirds to your yard. With a few simple steps, you can create an optimal feeding environment that is safe and appealing for hummingbirds.
Where should I hang the hummingbird feeder?
Location is key when placing a hummingbird feeder. Hummingbirds feel most comfortable feeding in open areas away from trees and shrubs where predators may hide. The best spots are areas that receive partial sunlight throughout the day. East or southeast facing spaces near gardens or flowering plants are ideal. Avoid overly windy areas that may cause the nectar to spill.
To make the feeder visible, hang it 3-5 feet off the ground. You can hang it from tree branches, a hook, pole, or Shepherd’s hook. Be sure to secure the feeder so it does not sway or tip in the wind. Select a location you can easily access for cleaning and refilling.
What type of hummingbird feeder should I use?
The most common feeders are made of glass or plastic bottles with inverted bases, small ports for hummingbirds to access the nectar, and a hook, wires, or strings for hanging. Here are some feeder options to consider:
- Glass tube/bottle feeders – Durable and easy to clean with hot water. Allows you to see the nectar level.
- Plastic bottle feeders – Affordable, lightweight, and easy to clean. May discolor over time.
- Saucer feeders – Wider feeding ports and basin. Easy for multiple hummers. Need more frequent filling.
- Hanging basket feeders – Decorative! Often made of wire and glass. Harder to clean.
The key is to select a feeder style that appeals to you, is easy to fill and clean, and has proper feeding ports for hummingbirds. The feeder size should match the number of hummingbirds you want to attract.
How do I prepare the nectar?
Filling your feeder with homemade nectar is simple. You’ll need just two ingredients:
- Water – Use plain tap or distilled water. Do not use sugar water, honey water, or artifical sweeteners.
- White Granulated Sugar – Avoid raw, brown, or organic sugar. Stick with standard white table sugar.
Mix 1 part sugar to 4 parts water. For example, 1 cup of sugar to 4 cups of water. Boil the water first to dissolve and sanitize. Let it cool before filling the feeder. Store extra nectar in the fridge for 1-2 weeks.
Never use food coloring, honey, or any other additives in the nectar. Plain white sugar water has everything hummingbirds need!
How often should I clean the feeder?
To prevent mold, bacteria, and fungi, it’s vital to clean the hummingbird feeder at least once every 2-3 days in warm weather. Here are some tips:
- Rinse with hot water and scrub inside with a bottle brush.
- Take apart tubes/ports and clean fully with a pipe cleaner.
- Soak in a hot vinegar-water solution to dissolve gunk and deposits.
- Air dry fully reassembled before refilling.
- Never use soap which can leave unsafe residue!
Cleaning daily or every other day is best during summer months when the nectar spoils fastest. Monitor for cloudiness, slimy film, or black mold – signs it’s time to clean!
What maintenance is required?
Aside from regular cleaning and nectar refilling, hummingbird feeders need some simple maintenance:
- Remove debris – Clear any built-up leaves, pollen, or bugs from the feeder basin, ports, and hooks.
- Check for leaks/cracks – Discard and replace leaking or damaged feeders.
- Freshen mineral deposits – Soak in vinegar water to dissolve any mineral crust left by tap water.
- Replace old feeders – Hummingbird feeders should be replaced every 1-2 years or when degraded.
Take time inspecting the feeder as you clean for needed upkeep. Address drips, clouding, scratches, rust, and other wear to keep your feeder in good shape.
Where should I place multiple feeders?
If you want to set up several feeders to accommodate more hummingbirds, follow these tips:
- Space feeders 10-15 feet apart so dominant males can’t guard them all.
- Vary feeder styles and placement heights to attract both dominant and subordinate birds.
- Add feeders gradually over time rather than all at once.
- Provide ample landing spots like branches and posts near the feeders.
Having multiple feeding zones reduces competition and allows hummingbirds to feed peacefully. Place new feeders out of sight from existing ones to minimize territorial behavior.
When should I take down the feeder?
In most regions, hummingbird feeders can be left up from early spring through late fall when hummers are present. Here are some guidelines for timing:
- Put up feeders in early April before hummingbirds arrive.
- In northern states, take down feeders in late September when migration ends.
- In southern states, keep feeders up through November.
- Take down feeders if outdoor temps drop below freezing.
- Clean and store feeders over winter, refilling again next spring.
Track hummingbird activity and local migration patterns to determine the best times to hang up and take down your feeders each season.
Can I leave my hummingbird feeder up year round?
It’s generally not recommended to leave hummingbird feeders up through the winter. Reasons to take feeders down in cold months include:
- Hummingbirds migrate away from northern regions when flowers die off.
- Nectar may freeze, crack the feeder, or make hummers sick.
- Feeders are prone to growing mold without cleaning.
- Simulator feeders may confuse migrating hummers.
However, in warm southern climates like Arizona, Texas, and Florida where hummingbirds overwinter, feeders can safely be left up year-round. Just be diligent about cleaning and maintenance!
Where can I buy a hummingbird feeder?
There are many great places to purchase hummingbird feeders and supplies, such as:
- Local bird and nature shops
- Hardware and garden supply stores
- Nurseries and greenhouse centers
- Large retailers like Walmart, Target, etc.
- Online shops like Amazon, Chewy, Home Depot
- Specialty hummingbird sites like Copper-hummingbird.com
Prices range from $5-$50+ depending on the style. When shopping, look for well-constructed feeders with easy cleaning access. Consider buying extra parts like replacement flowers, bee guards, and cleaning brushes.
Where can I buy premixed nectar?
Premixed nectar is available for purchase if you prefer not to make your own. You can find premixed powder or liquid concentrates at many stores, including:
- Hardware stores like Home Depot and Lowe’s
- Nurseries, garden centers, and greenhouse suppliers
- Pet supply stores like PetSmart and Petco
- Discount retailers such as Walmart and Target
- Online at Amazon, Chewy, Wild Birds Unlimited
Popular brand names include Kaytee, Perky-Pet, First Nature, Pennington, and Nature’s Way. Prices range from $5-$15 for multi-use powders and concentrates. Make sure to choose products specifically formulated for hummingbirds!
Conclusion
Following proper hummingbird feeder placement, cleaning, and maintenance practices is vital for attracting these special birds. Choose a visible location in partial sun near plants, use 1 part sugar to 4 parts water for fresh nectar, and clean the feeder thoroughly every 2-3 days. Take down feeders when hummers migrate and properly store them over winter. With the right techniques, you can provide a healthy, safe feeding habitat hummingbirds will flock to!
