Hummingbirds are remarkable little birds that have captivated people for centuries with their beauty and amazing flying abilities. These tiny birds have very specific needs when it comes to food and water in order to survive. Understanding what kind of water fountains and feeders hummingbirds prefer can help people properly care for these special birds.
Do hummingbirds drink from water fountains?
Yes, hummingbirds do drink from water fountains, provided the fountain is designed to accommodate their needs. Hummingbirds have a few particular requirements when it comes to fountains and other water sources:
- The water must be shallow. Hummingbirds drink by skimming the surface of the water with their tongues, so they need access to water that is no more than 1/2 inch deep.
- The water must be clear. They will not be able to see and access water that is too cloudy or filled with debris.
- The fountain must be designed so they can easily perch on the edge. They cannot hover and drink at the same time, so they need a perch place near the water’s surface.
- There must be some protection from the elements. Hummingbirds burn calories rapidly and can easily get wet and cold, so they prefer covered water sources.
Fountains that feature a shallow basin of clean water with a covered perch area nearby make ideal hummingbird watering spots. Dripper fountains also work well to provide a constant flow of fresh, clean water.
What features do hummingbirds like in a water fountain?
When setting up a water feature for hummingbirds, there are a few key things to consider:
- Shallow basin depth – As mentioned, hummingbirds only drink by skimming the surface of water, so basins need to be no more than 1/2 inch deep.
- Water movement – Movement attracts hummingbirds and helps discourage mosquito breeding. Fountains with light water flow or drippers work best.
- Easy perching spots – Flat rocks, stones, or ledges near the water’s edge provide a place for hummingbirds to perch and drink comfortably.
- Protection from the elements – Having part of the fountain shaded helps give hummingbirds relief on hot days.
- Fresh, clean water – Hummingbirds are put off by dirty, stagnant water. Fountains should be cleaned regularly.
- Position near feeders – Placing water sources 5-10 feet from feeders encourages more frequent visiting and drinking.
Ideally, a hummingbird fountain will feature a simple basin no more than 1/2 inch deep filled with clean water and a few large stones or a built-in perching area. Drippers or a very low flow spout provides movement, and having part of the fountain shaded helps give hummingbirds a cool place to rest and preen.
What are some good homemade hummingbird fountain ideas?
You don’t need an expensive store-bought fountain to provide water for hummingbirds. There are many simple, inexpensive DIY options you can make at home, such as:
Shallow basin birdbath
Take a wide, shallow bowl, plate, or other small basin and fill it with fresh water. Place a few small stones, marbles, or sticks around the edge for easy perching spots. Refresh the water daily or use an infusion of sugar water to help prevent mosquitoes.
Hanging milk jug feeder
Poke holes near the bottom of a plastic milk jug or similar plastic bottle, fill with water, and hang it nearby your feeder with some twine. The water will slowly drip out for a simple homemade fountain.
Misting bottle fountain
Get a clean, empty plastic spray bottle. Fill it with clean water and set it nearby your feeder. Give it a few pumps periodically to create a light misting fountain for the hummingbirds to fly through and drink.
Oasis style fountain
Place a shallow, wide bowl filled with pebbles on an overturned ceramic saucer. Water the pebbles to create a simple oasis style fountain. Top off the water as needed to keep the pebbles fully saturated.
What are the best pre-made fountains for hummingbirds?
There are many excellent commercial fountains made specifically for hummingbirds that incorporate features they are drawn to. Some top options include:
Songbird Essentials Dripper Fountain
This simple hummingbird fountain features a 1/2 inch deep basin with a continuously dripping water supply. The shallow, flowing water attracts hummingbirds, and the included perches provide a place for them to rest.
Flora Fountain
The Flora fountain has a 1 inch deep basin and includes built-in perches so hummingbirds can easily drink. The flowing water design helps prevent mosquito breeding.
Aspects HummZinger HighView Fountain
Designed specifically for hummingbird appeal, this fountain includes a 16 ounce capacity shallow basin, waterfall feature, and perching stones. The high profile design makes it easy to view visiting hummingbirds up close.
Allied Precision Industries Twilight Hummingbird Fountain
With an integrated light that creates a soft glow, the Twilight Fountain allows for viewing hummingbirds at dusk and dawn when they are most active. The shallow, running water basin accommodates hummingbird preferences.
Should hummingbird fountains be heated?
Heated bird baths and fountains are not necessary for hummingbirds specifically. These tiny birds have amazing metabolisms that allow them to maintain their high body temperature in most conditions. A source of heating is not needed to keep their fountain water from freezing.
However, heating a fountain can extend the time it can be used in especially cold climates. Heated elements are available for many commercial bird fountains and baths. These will keep the water thawed and accessible when temperatures regularly dip below freezing.
When using a heater, make sure the temperature is kept low enough to not harm hummingbirds. The water temperature should not exceed 80-90°F, even on the lowest setting.
Where should I place a hummingbird fountain?
The best placement for a hummingbird fountain is:
- Within 5-10 feet of your feeder(s)
- In a partially shaded spot
- On a base or hanger that tilts the water basin toward the anticipated perching area
- Elevated above the ground to help deter ants and cats
- In a spot you can view from inside your home (for enjoyment)
Positioning the fountain near areas of dense flowers, trees, and shrubs hummingbirds frequent is also recommended to provide easy mid-day access. Avoid placing fountains in direct sunlight to prevent algae growth.
How often should hummingbird fountains be cleaned?
Hummingbird fountains should be cleaned thoroughly at least once every 2-3 days. The warm temperatures that attract hummingbirds also promote bacterial and algae growth.
To properly clean a hummingbird fountain:
- Empty out old water and scrub inside surfaces with hot water and a bottle brush. Use a mild vinegar rinse to remove scale buildup.
- Wash any stones or perches in hot soapy water.
- Rinse thoroughly and refill with fresh, clean water. Do not use chemical additives or soap when refilling.
- Consider using an infusion of 1 part sugar to 4 parts water to help inhibit bacterial growth.
It’s best to clean fountains early in the morning or late evening when hummingbirds are less active. Cleaning every 2-3 days, or even daily in hot climates, will provide the fresh, insect-free water hummingbirds prefer.
Do hummingbirds bathe in fountains?
Yes, hummingbirds will sometimes bathe in fountains in addition to drinking from them. Providing a fountain with a very shallow, wide basin and a spray or misting feature will encourage hummingbirds to bathe.
Misting fountains add droplets into the air that hummingbirds can fly through and allowing bathing on the wing. Dripping fountains also provide inviting bathing opportunities when the drops splash up from the basin.
It can be mesmerizing to watch hummingbirds bathe. They will splash around and flutter their wings rapidly, spraying water everywhere. You may even see hummingbirds soak their entire head and body by dunking right into the fountain basin.
Do hummingbirds prefer stainless steel or plastic fountains?
Hummingbirds do not show a strong preference between stainless steel or plastic fountains, as long as the design meets their needs. Here are a few comparisons between the two common fountain materials:
Stainless Steel
- More durable and chew-resistant
- Heavier, can be harder to hang and tip to proper angles
- Slightly more expensive on average
- Can develop loud drips or drops from water
Plastic
- Lighter weight and often easier to mount
- Can deteriorate and crack over time
- Often more affordable
- Quieter water noise
Look for fountains made specifically for hummingbirds in either material that offer optimal, shallow basin depths and integrated perches. Focus more on functionality than fountain material when making your selection.
Should I add supplements to my hummingbird fountain water?
Adding supplements to hummingbird fountain water is not necessary and can potentially harm the birds. Hummingbirds get almost all the nutrition and minerals they need from flower nectar and commercial feeders.
Sugar mixes may be added to fountains at a concentration of no more than 1 teaspoon per cup of water. This slightly sweet water can help attract hummingbirds to the fountain. But take care not to make the water too sweet or sticky.
Avoid using any other additives, vitamins, nutrients, or supplementation in hummingbird fountain water. Even natural additives can build up over time and become toxic at higher doses.
Can I use a hummingbird fountain year round?
Hummingbird fountains can be used year-round in most climates, but may need some seasonal adjustments in colder regions. Here are some tips for using a hummingbird fountain year round:
- Clean and refresh water 1-2 times daily, even when not in use
- In sub-freezing weather, bring fountain components inside at night or use a heater
- Switch to a smaller basin size in colder months to prevent ice buildup
- Place in a covered area and angle basin toward sunlight to maximize warmth
- Use a thermal cover, insulation wrap, or small light for extra warmth if needed
- Remove perches which can crack in freezing weather
With some cold weather adjustments, most fountains can provide year-round access to fresh water. Discontinue use only if temperatures remain consistently sub-freezing day and night.
Conclusion
Hummingbirds are special little birds that have very specific needs when it comes to accessing drinking and bathing water. Choosing or making a fountain with a shallow, fresh water basin and easy perching spots will help attract these flying jewels. With a properly designed fountain that is cleaned regularly, you can provide the ideal water source for hummingbirds to thrive.
