If you have hummingbirds visiting your feeders but not drinking from them, there are a few potential causes to investigate:
The Sugar Concentration is Too Low
Hummingbirds have a very fast metabolism and prefer nectar that has a higher sugar concentration than you might expect. Most commercial hummingbird nectars have a ratio of 1 part sugar to 4 parts water. However, some experts recommend making a more concentrated nectar solution of 1 part sugar to 3 parts water early in the season when hummers need more energy after migration. If your nectar is too diluted, try increasing the sugar ratio to encourage hummingbirds to feed.
The Feeders Are Not Clean
Hummingbirds have a very keen sense of smell, and they will avoid feeders that have gotten moldy or fermented. It is essential to clean your feeders thoroughly every few days during peak hummingbird season. Use a bottle brush and mild soap diluted in hot water to scrub away any residue or buildup inside the feeder. Rinse very well and allow to fully dry before refilling with fresh nectar. Keeping feeders clean will make your yard more attractive to hummers.
The Location Is Not Ideal
Hummingbirds are sensitive to their environment when feeding. Make sure your feeders are located in a quiet spot away from disturbance by pets, children or traffic. Hang them from a tree branch, eave, post or shepherd’s hook in light to medium shade. Having multiple feeders in different locations will help attract more hummingbirds. If hung near windows, move them further away so birds do not collide with glass. Be patient, as it may take time for hummers to discover new feeders.
Threats from Other Birds or Animals
Hummingbirds are very small and can be intimidated by larger birds like crows, grackles and jays. These aggressive species may scare hummers away from feeders. Try isolating feeders away from places where bigger birds perch and feed. Squirrels and cats can also deter hummingbirds when they approach feeders. Using feeder styles with built-in perches rather than bee guards can dissuade squirrels, and keeping cats indoors or distracting them with other toys will create a safer feeding environment.
The Feeder Style Is Ineffective
There are many hummingbird feeder models available, but not all are equally effective at attracting hummers. Saucer-shaped feeders with multiple feeding ports in a ring formation are very popular with hummingbirds. Avoid feeders with straw-like tubes, as hummers prefer to lick nectar with their tongues rather than suck it up. Getting a new feeder designed specifically to entice hummingbirds may do the trick if they are not drinking from your current model.
Molt and Migration
In late summer, hummingbirds undergo an annual molt where they replace all their feathers. This process leaves them vulnerable and needing extra calories, so increased nectar consumption is normal. By early fall, some hummingbirds have also started migration to their wintering grounds. This leads to lower populations in many areas as birds depart. So seasonal changes in feeding behavior are perfectly normal even if hummers are visiting less often.
Weather Conditions
Hummingbirds are sensitive to weather and will not feed as vigorously in very hot, cold, windy or rainy conditions. Extreme heat forces hummers to seek shade. Colder temperatures lead hummingbirds to enter a state of torpor to conserve energy. Wind gusts make flying and feeding more difficult. And rain can drench their feathers making it hard to thermoregulate. So be patient if hummingbird activity drops off during inclement weather. Provide shelter near feeders when possible.
What to Do
If you suspect any of the above issues are keeping hummingbirds away from your feeders, here are some steps to take:
- Make fresh nectar weekly with a higher 1:3 sugar ratio
- Thoroughly clean all feeders with hot water every 2-3 days
- Relocate feeders away from potential disturbances
- Isolate feeders from larger aggressive birds
- Use feeders with perches and keep cats away
- Get new hummingbird-friendly feeder styles
- Be patient during molt, migration and bad weather
With attention to proper care, placement and cleaning of hummingbird feeders, you can create an enticing space for hummingbirds to return to feed. Focus on providing fresh nectar in a peaceful environment and hummers should return to drink their fill.
When to Call for Help
If you have tried all the above tips and hummingbirds are still not feeding:
- Consult with local bird watching groups or nature centers to see if low hummingbird activity is widespread in your region that season.
- Have an experienced birding friend observe your backyard habitat and suggest improvements.
- Consider contacting a wildlife rehabilitator if birds appear sick, injured or are exhibiting odd behavior around feeders.
Most issues that deter hummingbirds can be resolved with some adjustments to care and feeding. But if problems persist despite your best efforts, don’t hesitate to reach out to experts for advice and assistance. With a little help, you can discover why your hummingbirds went away and how to attract them back.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did the hummingbirds suddenly disappear from my yard?
There are a few common reasons hummingbirds suddenly disappear:
- Migration – Hummingbirds leave for their winter grounds at different times. Increased activity is normal as they fuel up for migration.
- Nesting Period Ends – Hummers raise multiple broods over the summer. When nesting is over, visits to your yard may drop off.
- Feeder Issues – Unclean feeders, ineffective styles or unpleasant locations can deter hummingbirds.
- Weather Changes – Cold snaps, heat waves, storms or high winds can disrupt hummingbird feeding temporarily.
How do I get hummingbirds to come back to my yard?
To encourage hummingbirds to return:
- Clean feeders thoroughly and change nectar weekly.
- Use a higher 1:3 sugar to water ratio in warm weather.
- Choose hummingbird-friendly feeder models and red colors.
- Ensure feeders are in quiet, shady locations up high.
- Provide a water source like a mister or shallow bird bath.
- Include nectar-rich flowers and flowering shrubs in your garden.
Meeting their habitat needs will help attract hummingbirds back.
How long does it take for hummingbirds to find a new feeder?
It can take 1-2 weeks for hummingbirds to discover new feeders. Young fledglings may find them faster once they leave the nest. Adding multiple feeders in different locations and using red colors can help speed up the process. Be patient, as hummingbirds have small territories and it takes time for word to spread about new food sources.
What is the best hummingbird feeder to buy?
The best hummingbird feeders have the following features:
- Multiple feeding ports
- Built-in perches
- Red color
- Leakproof and easy to clean
- Insect and bee guards
- Drip-free nectar flow
- Dish or saucer-shaped reservoir
Popular top-rated feeder styles include the Saucer Magnum, Aspects HummZinger Excel, First Nature Glass Hummingbird Feeder and Perky-Pet Glass Feeders.
Should I call a rehabber if hummingbirds disappear?
There’s no need to call a rehabber if hummingbirds suddenly disappear from your yard, as migration and nesting cycles account for changes in activity. Only contact a rehab professional if you find a sick, injured or orphaned hummingbird that needs medical assistance. Disappearing birds are likely just moving around normally within their territory and habitats.
Conclusion
Troubleshooting your yard to discover what might be deterring hummingbirds is the best approach if they are coming but not feeding. With small adjustments to your feeding station setup, nectar quality and garden landscape, you can create an ideal environment that welcomes hummingbirds to sip. Pay attention to seasonal behavior changes and weather factors as well. Soon enough, those glittering jewels on wings will return happily to your feeders and flowers.
