The best time to hang hummingbird feeders is in early spring before the hummingbirds arrive back in your area. Hanging the feeders 1-2 weeks before the average first sighting date gives the hummingbirds a food source to come back to. Feeders should be cleaned and filled with fresh nectar weekly during spring and summer when hummingbirds are actively feeding.
Understanding hummingbird migration and feeding habits
Hummingbirds are migratory birds that travel long distances between their summer breeding grounds in the United States and Canada and their winter grounds in Mexico and Central America. Ruby-throated hummingbirds migrate northward along the Gulf Coast states from February to May. They typically arrive in mid to late spring depending on your location. Hummingbirds rely on flower nectar and insects for food. By providing feeders, you give them a supplemental food source.
Hummingbirds have a fast metabolism and high energy needs. They feed every 10-15 minutes throughout the day, visiting hundreds of flowers. Hummingbirds consume up to half their weight in nectar daily. Due to their small size, hummingbirds can starve to death in just a few hours if they cannot find enough food. Setting up feeders before migration provides a reliable food supply.
Determining when hummingbirds arrive in your region
To determine when to hang feeders, research the average first sighting or arrival dates for your location. This gives you a target date to aim for. Arrival dates may vary by a couple weeks each year depending on weather conditions during migration. Ruby-throated hummingbirds typically arrive in mid to late March in the Southern states, late April in the Midwest, and May in the Northern states and Canada.
Southern states
Louisiana, Georgia, South Carolina – Late February to Mid March
Texas, Arkansas, Alabama – Mid March
Florida – Late March
Midwest states
Missouri, Illinois, Indiana, Ohio – Mid to late April
Iowa, Michigan, Wisconsin – Late April
Northern states & Canada
Minnesota, New York, Maine – Early May
Canada – Mid May
Preparing the feeders
To get your feeders ready, thoroughly clean them with hot water and either white vinegar or a very mild dish soap. No harsh chemicals. Rinse very well. Let them completely dry before filling. Only refill with fresh nectar right before hanging.
Make your own nectar by mixing four parts water to one part white table sugar. No dyes, flavors, or artificial sweeteners. Bring to a boil to dissolve the sugar then let cool before filling. Unused nectar can be refrigerated for 1-2 weeks. Discard old nectar and deep clean feeders weekly.
Hummingbirds rely on flower nectar for energy and cannot subsist on sugar water alone long-term. To provide additional nutrition, stir a pinch of electrolyte powder into the nectar. The trace minerals benefit hummingbirds.
Where and how to hang the feeders
Hang feeders in a shady spot near trees, shrubs, or gardens that provide natural shelter and perches. Use S-hooks for hanging so feeders can be easily taken down for cleaning and refilling. Hang feeders at an appropriate height – 5-6 feet off the ground so they are visible but safe from predators.
Avoid hanging near windows as reflections confuse hummingbirds. Position feeders so hummingbirds have an unobstructed approach from all directions with room to perch and take off. Have a clear view so you can observe them.
Provide multiple feeders spaced well apart to prevent dominant males from monopolizing them. Clean and rotate feeders to offer fresh nectar. Hummingbirds may prefer different style feeders.
Encouraging hummingbird activity
In addition to feeders, attract hummingbirds by landscaping with native plants they like. Flowers with tubular red blooms that provide nectar are best. Plant clumps close together with wide openings and perches. Good choices include bee balm, cardinal flower, trumpet vine, and others.
Provide a water feature like a mister, fountain, or sprinkler to create habitat. Placing feeders near water sources gives hummingbirds a place to bathe and drink. Avoid using pesticides that could be ingested or that kill insect populations hummingbirds feed on.
Ongoing hummingbird care
Once hummingbirds discover your feeders, maintain them regularly by:
- Cleaning with hot water or mild vinegar water weekly
- Discarding old nectar completely
- Refilling with fresh nectar only – 1 part sugar 4 parts water
- Never adding food coloring or flavoring
- Rinsing any mold, black debris, or buildup
- Cleaning stubborn gunk with a bottle brush
Also monitor feeders to ensure ants and bees do not take over. Use ant moats or rehang feeders if needed. Only take down feeders once hummingbird activity stops for winter, typically by mid-October.
Expected timeline when to hang feeders
Follow this ideal timeline for your region:
- Early March (Southern states) – Clean and fill feeders
- Late March/Early April (Midwest) – Hang out feeders
- Early/Mid May (Northern states) – Prepare and hang feeders
- Mid March Onward – Clean/refill feeders weekly
- October – Take down feeders for season
Adjust your timing based on typical sightings in your area. Having feeders up 1-2 weeks prior gives hummingbirds ready food. Continue care through fall migration southward.
Benefits of providing hummingbird feeders
Here are some of the benefits of attracting hummingbirds with feeders:
- See incredible ruby-throated hummingbirds up close
- Observe their stunning metallic colors and swift flight
- Watch males perform aerial courtship displays
- Provide critical supplemental nutrition they need
- Give food during migration when flower nectar is limited
- Enjoy their beauty and fascinating behavior
- Contribute to hummer conservation by supporting populations
Even one feeder in your yard makes a difference for hummingbirds returning in spring when natural food is scarce. Follow the guidelines for when to hang and care for feeders, and enjoy hours of magical moments with hummingbirds in your garden!
