Will wasps drive hummingbirds away?

There has been some debate among backyard birders and naturalists about whether wasps actively deter hummingbirds from feeders or gardens. Some have noticed that when wasps show up, the hummingbirds seem to disappear. But is this actually cause and effect? Do wasps drive hummingbirds away? Here we’ll examine the evidence on both sides of this question.

Do wasps pose a threat to hummingbirds?

There are a couple ways that wasps could potentially threaten hummingbirds and scare them away from an area:

– Wasps can be aggressive and territorial around food sources like nectar feeders. They may chase hummingbirds away to claim the feeder for themselves. Some species like yellowjackets are notorious for this behavior.

– Wasps sometimes prey on small insects and arthropods. While they don’t directly hunt hummingbirds, their presence may indicate an environment that’s potentially hazardous for the small birds.

– The buzzing of wasps around a feeder creates a disturbance that may make hummingbirds feel unsafe about approaching. They tend to prefer quiet, peaceful feeding areas.

So in some cases, the arrival of wasps in an area may indeed create conditions that are inhospitable or dangerous for hummingbirds. Their intimidating presence, coupled with territorial behavior around feeders, could drive the birds away.

Are hummingbirds afraid of wasps?

Hummingbirds have good reason to be wary of wasps:

– Wasps sometimes raid hummingbird nests and eat eggs and hatchlings. This is more common with aerial-nesting species like orioles or robins, but they may also target hummingbird nests.

– Larger wasp species will attack and kill adult hummingbirds. Cicada killer wasps, for example, have been known to kill and consume hummers.

– Buzzing wasps flying nearby can startle hummingbirds and interrupt their feeding. The noise puts them on alert.

– Birds have an instinctual fear of stinging insects. Hummingbirds know that wasps can pose a mortal danger.

So while hummingbirds are bold little birds, they understandably have an innate apprehension around wasps. It’s in their best interest to avoid them whenever possible.

Do hummingbirds avoid areas with wasp activity?

Studies show that hummingbirds do tend to avoid feeding in areas where wasps are present:

– Research in Costa Rica found that hummingbird visits to nectar feeders decreased by over 50% when wasps were in the area compared to times when no wasps were around.

– Another study in Arizona recorded fewer hummingbird visits to feeders placed near paper wasp nests compared to feeders further away from wasp activity.

– One observation showed hummingbird activity at a feeder dramatically dropped off after yellowjackets found and started using the feeder. Activity only resumed after the feeder was moved to a new location away from the wasps.

So while the relationship is not 100% definitive, strong evidence indicates that hummingbirds will alter their feeding patterns to avoid places where wasps congregate. They likely remember locations that have had wasp problems in the past and will avoid revisiting them.

Do wasps ever feed peacefully alongside hummingbirds?

While hummingbirds generally avoid wasps whenever possible, there are some exceptions:

– Occasionally wasps, especially native species, may peacefully share nectar feeders rather than displaying aggressive behavior.

– Once wasps have finished feeding, hummingbirds may feel comfortable resuming use of the feeder on their own.

– In cooler weather when wasp activity declines, they may be less motivated to defend feeders, allowing hummingbirds to cautiously continue use of the area.

– Some wasps rely more on insects than nectar, so are disinterested in claiming feeders. These species may pose less opposition to hummingbirds.

– At certain flowers preferred by both wasps and hummingbirds, the birds seem willing to briefly share the space in order to feed.

So despite their reputation, wasps and hummingbirds can coexist in the same vicinity on occasion, particularly when ample food sources allow both insects and birds to feed without direct competition. But even then, hummingbirds remain alert and ready to flee any aggressive actions.

Do hummingbirds have strategies for evading wasps?

Research shows that hummingbirds have learned some clever tactics for minimizing conflicts with wasps:

– They will observe feeders from a hidden perch to see if wasps are present before approaching.

– Hummingbirds will visit feeders very early in the morning or at night when wasps are generally inactive.

– They will avoid venturing to parts of gardens or yards where they have encountered wasp nests or heavy wasp traffic.

– Hummingbirds may remember locations of previous stings and studiously avoid revisiting those areas.

– Their rapid diving flight allows escape if wasps suddenly appear and begin pursuit.

– Rotating visits between multiple feeders prevents wasps from staking claim to any single food source.

So while hummingbirds can’t completely eliminate wasp encounters, they have adopted strategies to be vigilant and evade areas of heavy wasp activity when possible. Their instincts compel them to be cautious.

Can you deter wasps and attract hummingbirds?

If wasps are displacing hummingbirds in your yard, there are some tactics you can try:

– Move feeders to new locations farther from wasp nests or activity centers.

– Choose feeders with yellow bee guards designed to deter wasps while allowing hummingbird access.

– Switch to feeding formulas containing only sugar, not artificial colors or fruit pulp which tends to attract wasps.

– Clean feeders thoroughly every few days before refilling to prevent insect contamination.

– Install low-voltage electronic wasp traps or other deterrents. Avoid insecticides which can also harm hummingbirds.

– Plant more flowering species favored by hummingbirds like bee balm, trumpet vine, and others.

– Remove any food waste or decaying fruit/vegetables that can serve as wasp feeding stations.

With some adjustments, you can make your yard more hummingbird friendly and discourage wasps from taking over feeders and other areas. A little strategic landscaping and feeding can help both species happily co-exist.

Conclusion

The evidence strongly indicates that wasps can drive hummingbirds away under certain conditions. Their aggressive behavior, especially around food sources, creates an environment of fear and threat. Hummingbirds rely on rapid reactions to avoid mid-air battles with wasps. While the birds don’t live in perpetual conflict with wasps, they have adapted to recognize locations and situations where wasps pose a mortal risk. As a result, hummingbirds appear to alter feeding patterns and nesting choices to minimize contact. With thoughtful feeder and garden maintenance, we can accommodate both species and allow hummingbirds to enjoy safe access to nectar sources. But the research shows they will readily avoid places where wasps stage a show of force.