Hummingbirds are amazing little creatures that bring joy to backyard bird watchers. Their bright colors and incredible flying abilities make them a delight to observe. However, it can be frustrating and concerning when hummingbirds suddenly abandon a feeder they previously visited. There are a few key reasons hummingbirds may stop coming to a feeder.
The Feeder is Dirty
Hummingbirds have very sensitive senses of smell and sight. If the nectar in a feeder becomes cloudy, moldy, or covered in ants or bees, hummingbirds will detect this and avoid the feeder. Their tiny size makes them vulnerable to getting sick if they ingest spoiled nectar or insects in the feeder. Here are some tips for keeping feeders clean:
- Wash the feeder with hot water and a mild detergent every few days. Rinse thoroughly.
- Soak the feeder in a vinegar and water solution to remove lime and mineral deposits.
- Use a bottle brush to scrub the feeding ports.
- Let the feeder air dry completely before refilling.
- Empty and clean the feeder before periods of disuse, such as when away on vacation.
Keeping the feeder meticulously clean will encourage hummingbirds to keep visiting.
The Nectar has Spoiled
Even if the feeder looks clean, hummingbirds can detect when nectar has spoiled. Their sense of taste helps them avoid potentially toxic food sources. Some signs of spoiled nectar include:
- Cloudiness
- Moldy film on the liquid surface
- Foul smell
To keep nectar fresh:
- Use fresh nectar within 5-7 days of preparation.
- Refrigerate unused nectar.
- Follow a nectar recipe of 1 part table sugar to 4 parts water. Avoid honey, artificial sweeteners, food coloring, or other additives.
- Replace nectar at least every 2-3 days in hot weather.
- Dump out old nectar instead of just topping off.
Providing a consistent supply of fresh nectar will make the feeder more appealing.
The Feeder’s Location has Changed
Hummingbirds can have a very consistent routine and feeding schedule. If the feeder is moved to a different spot, the birds may not be able to find it in the new location. It’s best not to move feeders once set up. However, if a feeder must be relocated:
- Move it gradually over a few days rather than all at once.
- Choose a spot with similar sun exposure so hummingbirds will notice the feeder while foraging.
- If relocating more than 5-10 feet, set up a second feeder in the old location for 1-2 weeks.
- Avoid moving the feeder during key migration or nesting times when food is especially critical.
With some care when relocating, hummingbirds will learn the new feeder placement.
Increased Competition from Bees
Hummingbirds are incredibly territorial around feeders. If native bees or wasps learn that your feeder is a food source, hummingbirds may avoid the feeder to prevent conflicts over the nectar. Bees are also more efficient at feeding and can quickly drain a small feeder.
To discourage bees:
- Use a feeder with bee guards over the feeding ports.
- Place feeders in shady spots, which bees tend to avoid.
- Consider using a saucer feeder, which is harder for bees to access.
- Move the feeder away from locations where bees nest or congregate.
- Use red nectar as bees cannot see the color red.
Making the feeder less appealing to bees can convince hummingbirds to return.
Natural Seasonal Changes
Hummingbird activity and feeding patterns change throughout the seasons as migration, breeding, and flower availability fluctuate. Here is an overview of typical seasonal trends:
| Season | Hummingbird Activity Pattern |
|---|---|
| Spring | Increased activity as hummingbirds return from migration and establish territories |
| Summer | Stable feeding and breeding activity |
| Fall | Increased energy needs pre-migration may lead to more feeder visits |
| Winter | Decreased activity as most hummingbirds migrate south |
So natural shifts in hummingbird behavior through the seasons can alter how much they rely on your feeder. Providing a consistent, well-maintained feeder will encourage them to come regularly during the times when supplemental food is most needed.
A Nearby Feeder is More Appealing
Hummingbirds can be fickle with their loyalties. If your neighbor puts up a feeder that is newer, cleaner, or better stocked, hummingbirds may switch to the better food source nearby. Consider whether a new feeder has gone up in your area that may be stealing away your usual visitors. If so, it’s time to refresh your setup and make sure you are providing the most appealing, well-stocked feeder in your neighborhood!
Conclusion
Hummingbirds suddenly abandoning a reliable food source is often due to small changes in the feeder itself or the surrounding habitat, so there are steps you can take to re-attract them. By keeping the feeder meticulously clean, preventing spoiled nectar, maintaining a consistent location, discouraging bees, understanding natural fluctuations by season, and ensuring your feeder remains the best option in your neighborhood, you can troubleshoot what may be deterring hummingbirds and make your setup as appealing as possible so these energetic birds return.
Watching hummingbirds whir around the yard with their jewel-toned colors and aerobatic abilities brings many people joy. Don’t let their sudden absence dismay you. Instead, be proactive about refreshing and enhancing your feeder. With a passion for providing these tiny birds the nutrition they need, you’ll see their buzzing wings and flickering tongues at your feeder again before you know it.
