When it comes to hanging a hummingbird feeder, location is key. There are certain places around your home that you’ll want to avoid placing a feeder if you hope to attract hummingbirds. In this article, we’ll discuss the main locations that should be off-limits when deciding where to hang your hummingbird feeder.
Near Windows
One of the worst spots to mount a hummingbird feeder is right next to a window. Hummingbirds are easily startled, and if they collide with window glass it can injure or even kill them. Feeders placed too close to windows often cause hummingbirds to mistake the reflection for an actual plant or feeder. When the bird attempts to feed, it hits the glass instead which can be dangerous.
To avoid this problem, make sure to hang hummingbird feeders at least 3 feet away from any windows. This gives the birds adequate space to avoid any accidental window collisions. You’ll still be able to enjoy watching the hummingbirds feed from inside your home, just with the feeder situated a safe distance from the glass.
Near Trees or Bushes
While hummingbirds appreciate shady spots, you’ll want to avoid hanging feeders directly next to or above trees and bushes. These locations can provide cover for predators to hide and ambush the tiny birds. Squirrels, cats, and larger predatory birds may lurk in wait to snatch an unsuspecting hummer.
Instead, mount your feeder in an open area at least 10 feet away from trees, bushes, fence posts, or other structures where predators can conceal themselves. This allows the hummingbirds to spot potential threats while feeding.
Under Gutters or Overhangs
It may seem like a good idea to hang a hummingbird feeder under a gutter, roof overhang, or awning to provide shelter. However, these areas should be avoided. When it rains, water can splash from the gutter or overhang and get the feeder wet. This causes the nectar to quickly spoil and can spread diseases to hummingbirds.
For a clean and safe feeding experience, mount your hummingbird feeder in an open location without any roof or ledge above it. This prevents rain from contaminating the nectar and keeps the feeder drier overall.
Near Ornamental Flowers
While flowering plants can attract hummingbirds to your yard, you don’t want to hang feeders too close to ornamental flowers. The colors and scents of these plants can be alluring to hummingbirds. If a feeder is mounted right next to flowers, the birds may opt to visit the flowers over the feeder.
To encourage more feeder activity, position your hummingbird feeder at least 10-15 feet away from any flowering plants. This way, the birds can’t avoid the feeder in favor of the fresh nectar from flowers.
In High Traffic Areas
Areas with frequent activity and noise like near sidewalks, patios, or entryways aren’t ideal for hummingbird feeders. The commotion can startle hummingbirds and deter them from approaching the feeder. They feel safest in quiet spots away from disturbances.
Pick a peaceful setting away from high traffic zones. The best locations are in somewhat secluded areas of your yard where the birds won’t constantly be interrupted.
In Direct Sunlight
While hummingbirds don’t mind sunlight, you don’t want to hang feeders in areas with intense, direct sun exposure all day. This can cause the nectar inside to heat up, spoil faster, and become unsuitable for the birds.
Aim for spots that get a mix of sun and shade. Areas that receive a few hours of morning sun and afternoon shade are often ideal. The partial sunlight won’t interfere with the feeder’s contents while still making it an inviting place for hummers to congregate.
Near Ant Trails
One pest that can quickly contaminate hummingbird feeders is ants. If you hang a feeder near existing ant trails or colonies, the ants will soon find their way to the sugary nectar. The ants can quickly overrun the feeder and scare away hummingbirds.
Before mounting a feeder, observe your space for a few days and look for signs of ants like trails along the ground or walls. Position the feeder well away from these areas to limit ant access. You can also apply a small amount of petroleum jelly to the hanging wire above the feeder to block ants from reaching it.
Near Bee Hives
While hummingbirds will freely share feeders with butterflies and other small pollinators, hanging one near a bee hive is asking for trouble. Bees are extremely attracted to sugar and will swarm a feeder that’s too close to their colony. This not only prevents hummingbirds from accessing the feeder but could prompt aggressive behavior from bees protecting the food source.
Keep feeders at least 20-30 feet from any active bee hives in your yard. This avoids drawing in too many bees that could overwhelm the feeder and scare away hummingbirds in the process.
In Windy Areas
Hummingbirds have a difficult time accessing feeders that sway and swing excessively in the wind. Constant movement from breezes makes it tricky for them to hover and feed.
Pick protected locations that don’t get heavy winds. Under the canopy of trees or on a covered porch are often calmer spots. You can also firmly anchor the feeder’s hanging wires or use a feeder style that remains stationary to prevent excessive swinging.
Near Feeders for Other Birds
While it’s fine to have multiple types of bird feeders in your yard, avoid positioning hummingbird feeders directly next to ones meant for larger bird species. Crows, blackbirds, starlings, and others attracted to mixed or seed feeders can intimidate hummingbirds and make them feel unsafe.
Separate hummingbird feeders by at least 20 feet from other bird feeders. This shared space reduces bullying at feeders and allows hummingbirds to access their own food source.
Key Takeaways
- Avoid hanging hummingbird feeders on or near windows as birds can injure themselves on the glass.
- Don’t mount feeders directly next to trees or bushes where predators can hide.
- Prevent feeder contamination by keeping them away from gutters and overhangs.
- Position feeders away from flowering plants so hummers visit the feeder over flowers.
- Pick calm, quiet settings away from high traffic areas.
- Aim for spots with a mix of sun and shade.
- Observe for ant trails and bee hives and keep feeders far from them.
- Select protected areas with minimal wind.
- Separate hummingbird feeders from other bird feeder types to prevent bullying.
By avoiding these problematic locations, you can create an ideal safe spot that hummingbirds will eagerly visit. Pay attention to your yard conditions and landscape when deciding where to place your feeder. With a little planning, you’ll have a thriving feeder that attracts hummingbirds all season long.
