Hummingbirds are some of the most fascinating birds found in nature. Their ability to hover mid-air and fly backwards makes them unique among North American birds. Hummingbirds are also extremely territorial and will aggressively defend their food sources from other hummingbirds. This aggressiveness extends to the kinds of feeders they prefer – hummingbirds have preferences for certain styles of feeders over others.
What do hummingbirds eat?
Hummingbirds are nectivores, meaning their diet consists of nectar from flowers. They have specially adapted long, slender beaks and tongues that allow them to extract nectar from flowers. Hummingbirds also consume small insects as a source of protein. Because of their high metabolism, hummingbirds must eat frequently throughout the day to take in enough calories to have sufficient energy.
When flowers are not available, hummingbirds rely on nectar feeders provided by homeowners. These feeders are filled with a liquid “nectar” solution – typically just regular white granulated sugar mixed with water. The sugar provides carbohydrates and the water prevents dehydration. This nectar substitute provides hummingbirds with the calories they need to fuel their metabolisms and activities.
What style of hummingbird feeders are there?
There are several common types of hummingbird feeders used to attract these colorful birds to backyards.
Saucer Feeders
Saucer feeders, also known as tray feeders, consist of a circular reservoir or “saucer” of nectar with holes around the edges where hummingbirds can access the liquid. Multiple birds can feed at once. The open design allows for easy monitoring of nectar levels.
Tube Feeders
Tube feeders offer elongated, cylindrical reservoirs to contain nectar. Hummingbirds drink from small ports along the tubes. Tube feeders are among the most popular feeder types due to their large nectar capacity and ease of use.
Hanging Bottle Feeders
Hanging bottle feeders feature glass or plastic bottles turned upside down to create a hanging nectar reservoir. Hummingbirds access the nectar through feeding ports on the bottom of the bottle. The novelty of seeing hummingbirds feed upside down makes these feeders visually appealing.
Funnel Feeders
Funnel feeders consist of a top reservoir that leads into a funnel. Nectar drops from the reservoir through the funnel, where hummingbirds can position themselves to easily lap it up. The continuous nectar flow creates a popular feeding experience.
How to choose the best hummingbird feeder
When selecting a hummingbird feeder, here are some factors to consider:
- Nectar capacity – Look for a feeder that holds enough nectar to avoid constant refilling. Depending on the number of hummingbirds visiting, a 16-64 ounce capacity is ideal.
- Number of feeding ports – More feeding ports allow multiple hummingbirds to drink at once. 4-12 ports is optimal for most yards.
- Nectar accessibility – Deep flowers and short perches ensure only hummingbirds can access the nectar.
- Easy cleaning – Feeders with removable parts make cleaning simple when replacing old nectar.
- Durability – Look for sturdy, well-constructed feeders that can withstand weather and repeated use.
- Pest-proof – Tight fitting ports, moats, and bee guards help keep away ants, bees, and other pests.
Additionally, consider getting a few different feeder styles to determine which ones your local hummingbirds prefer. Monitoring hummingbird activity and behavior at the feeders can provide insight into the features they are most attracted to.
Do hummingbirds prefer certain feeder colors?
Research shows that hummingbird feeder color plays little role in hummingbird feeding preferences. Here are some key facts about hummingbirds and color:
- Hummingbirds are naturally attracted to the color red, as they’ve evolved to target red flowers. However, they do not necessarily prefer red feeders.
- Bright colors like red, orange, and yellow may initially catch their attention and help them locate the feeder.
- Once hummingbirds start regularly using a feeder, they will return to it regardless of color due to memory – not color preference.
- In fact, green and yellow feeders may be ideal, as they blend in with natural settings and are less visually intrusive in yards.
So feel free to choose the feeder color you find most visually appealing, rather than trying to cater to hummingbird color preferences. Place the feeder in a visible location to first attract hummingbirds, and they will remember its location after that, regardless of color.
Where should hummingbird feeders be placed?
Proper feeder placement is important to attract hummingbirds and provide them with a safe, comfortable feeding experience. Here are some tips:
Hang at an appropriate height
Hang feeders about 5 feet off the ground so hummingbirds can access them easily. Hanging them at this height also discourages other wildlife like squirrels from disturbing the feeder.
Choose a visible location
Pick a spot where the feeder will stand out against the backdrop so hummingbirds notice it. Near flowers, trees, and shrubs is ideal. Avoid placing near dense foliage that may conceal the feeder.
Provide some shelter
Having some trees, shrubs, or other structures nearby provides shelter and perches for hummingbirds to rest when not feeding.
Avoid direct sunlight
Too much direct sun exposure can cause the nectar to spoil more quickly. Find a shady spot protected from the sun.
Protect from wind
Windy spots cause the nectar to empty from the feeder more rapidly. Seek a spot with some protection from strong winds.
Discourage predators
Position the feeder away from places where predators may hide, like dense bushes. Select a location with good visibility to minimize risk.
How often should hummingbird feeders be cleaned?
To keep nectar fresh and prevent mold, hummingbird feeders should be cleaned frequently. Follow these general guidelines:
- Clean the feeder every 2-3 days during peak hummingbird season.
- Clean once a week during cooler weather when nectar spoils slower.
- Always clean thoroughly before refilling with fresh nectar.
- If black mold is visible in the nectar, clean immediately.
- Use a mild soap and water solution, rinsing thoroughly after cleaning.
- Let the cleaned feeder parts air dry completely before reassembling and refilling.
Dirty feeders can make hummingbirds sick. Following a regular cleaning schedule based on the feeder’s usage and the climate helps provide hummingbirds with healthy, fresh nectar at all times.
What is the best homemade nectar recipe for hummingbirds?
The best basic homemade nectar for hummingbirds can be made by mixing together:
- 1 part white, granulated sugar
- 4 parts water
For example, mixing 1/4 cup sugar with 1 cup water. Bring the mixture to a boil then let cool before filling feeders. This creates a 20% sugar concentration solution that best mimics natural flower nectar.
Never use honey, brown sugar, artificial sweeteners or fruit juices in nectar. Plain white sugar and water is healthiest for hummingbirds. Store unused nectar in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Always start with fresh nectar when refilling feeders.
Nectar Recipe Tips
- Use cane or beet sugar only, not raw, organic or brown sugars.
- Avoid food coloring, which provides no benefit.
- Make smaller batches to ensure freshness.
- Use boiled, distilled, or bottled water to avoid chlorination.
- Never reuse old nectar, always make a fresh batch.
Conclusion
Hummingbirds are particular about their feeding preferences, so providing the right feeder setup is key to attracting them. Choosing durable, easy-to-clean feeders with ample nectar capacity and multiple feeding ports allows for an ideal feeding experience. Proper placement in a visible spot with some natural shelter encourages hummingbirds to regularly visit. Keeping feeders meticulously clean and filled with fresh nectar made from white sugar and water demonstrates the care needed to properly host hummingbirds in your yard. Paying attention to these important factors will create happy, healthy, and loyal hummingbird visitors at your feeders for years to come.
