Hummingbirds are known for their propensity to aggressively guard food sources, especially nectar feeders. This territorial behavior leads many people to wonder: why do hummingbirds hog the feeder? There are several factors that drive this seemingly selfish behavior.
Competition for limited resources
In the wild, hummingbirds obtain nectar from flowers. However, flowers only produce a limited amount of nectar. This means hummingbirds have to aggressively compete for access to this important food source. They are adapted to chase away other birds and insects who want to feed on the same flowers. This competitive behavior is instinctual and allows them to meet their high metabolic needs.
When people put up nectar feeders in their yards, it replicates a flower. And just like with real flowers, there is only so much “nectar” to go around. So hummingbirds transfer their natural competitiveness to feeders.
High metabolism
Hummingbirds have extremely fast metabolisms. Their hearts beat up to 1,260 times per minute and they take 250-300 breaths per minute. They need a lot of calories to power their bodies and must consume approximately their body weight in nectar each day.
This drives them to aggressively seek out and defend nectar supplies. They cannot afford to share because their survival depends on having enough calories. A hummingbird may starve if it does not have enough food to fuel itself.
Territorialism
Hummingbirds are very territorial. They will establish feeding territories around nectar sources and defend them fiercely against intruders. Males in particular will chase away other males or females that enter their territory. They do this by performing dramatic display dives and emitting high-pitched vocalizations.
By hogging a feeder, a hummingbird is able to access the nectar supply without expending as much energy defending its territory. It’s easier to just scare others away initially.
When hummingbirds hog feeders
Several hummingbird behaviors at feeders may be perceived as “hogging”:
- Perching on or near the feeder for long periods
- Not allowing other birds to access ports
- Display dives at other hummingbirds approaching the feeder
- Emitting chirps and chip notes when other birds try to feed
- Feeding from multiple ports at once
This behavior happens more frequently in the following situations:
Single feeder
When there is only one nectar feeder in an area, hummingbirds are more likely to aggressively guard it. With multiple feeders spaced apart, different birds can claim different feeders.
Feeder placement
Feeders placed too close to vegetation, structures, or each other can lead to conflicts. There are limited suitable perches for hummingbirds to use while feeding. Good feeder placement provides clear sightlines and multiple access points.
Concentrated sugar content
| Nectar Concentration | Effect on Behavior |
|---|---|
| Less than 20% | May not adequately feed hummingbirds | 20-25% | Ideal sugar concentration |
| Over 25% | Increases territorial behavior at feeders |
Nectar with an overly concentrated sugar content can cause hummingbirds to become more territorial. They will work harder to defend a high-value food source.
Time of year
Hummingbird territoriality increases in late summer when preparing to migrate. Food availability becomes more important as they need to nearly double their body weight. Males may also become aggressive during the breeding season.
Effects of hummingbirds hogging feeders
The effects of territorial hummingbirds at feeders include:
Preventing other birds from feeding
An aggressive hummingbird chasing others away will keep other birds from accessing the nectar. Smaller and younger hummingbirds may not be able to compete.
Increased fighting and injuries
Frequent fighting from guarding territories can lead hummingbirds to become injured or lose calories needed for survival. Broken feathers or skin wounds make them vulnerable.
Fewer birds visiting the feeder
People may be disappointed to see fewer unique hummingbirds if one bird is hogging the feeder. Viewing opportunities decrease.
Less ability to refuel during migration
Territorial behavior reduces food availability for migrating hummingbirds that need to stop and refuel. This can indirectly impact their survival chances.
Preventing hummingbirds from hogging the feeder
There are several strategies to reduce hummingbird feeder aggression:
Use multiple feeders
Provide abundant feeding opportunities by offering 2-3+ feeders spaced widely apart. Hummingbirds will spread out.
Alter feeder placement
Periodically move feeders to disrupt territorial birds. Rotate different feeders into ideal spots.
Clean feeders thoroughly
Dirty or moldy feeders can contribute to aggression. Change nectar and clean regularly.
Avoid over-concentration of nectar
Do not make nectar stronger than 25% sugar or 1 part sugar to 4 parts water.
Provide insect feeders
Give territorial birds an alternate food source like a butterfly feeder.
Use feeders with more ports
| Number of Feeding Ports | Effect on Behavior |
|---|---|
| 1-2 ports | More guarding behavior |
| 3-5 ports | Moderate guarding behavior |
| 6+ ports | Less guarding behavior |
Use feeders with more openings so several birds can feed at once.
Provide separate male and female feeders
Try offering distinct feeders for males (red) and females (pink) to reduce mating competition.
Conclusion
Hummingbirds evolved to aggressively defend nectar supplies critical for their survival. At feeders, this natural behavior can manifest as one bird “hogging” the food source. While inconvenient for people wanting to enjoy hummingbird activity, it is important not to disrupt normal behaviors.
There are many strategies to minimize hummingbird aggression and sharing at feeders. With some adjustments, you can provide ample feeding opportunities for all your visiting hummingbirds.
