Hummingbird Feeder Tips

• 1. When Should You Put Out Your Hummingbird Feeder?
• 2. Make Your Own Nectar with This Simple Recipe
• 3. Clean and Refill Regularly
• 4. What If Hummingbirds Aren’t Visiting My Feeder?
• 5. Dealing with Ants and Bees

1. When Should You Put Out Your Hummingbird Feeder?

• Set out your feeder 1-2 weeks before hummingbirds are expected to arrive in your area. Not sure when that is? Try searching for a hummingbird migration map for your region.
• Keep your feeder up as long as hummingbirds are around. In some areas (e.g., southern US), late migrants may stop by even in early winter, so don’t take it down too soon!

2. Make Your Own Nectar with This Simple Recipe

• Mix 4 parts water with 1 part plain white sugar (never use organic sugar, brown sugar, or honey).
• Bring the water to a boil, stir in the sugar until fully dissolved, then let it cool completely.
• Skip the red dye and store-bought nectar—homemade is safer and healthier for hummingbirds.
• Store leftover nectar in the fridge for up to 1 week.

3. Clean and Refill Regularly

• Clean your feeder every time you refill it. Use a brush and warm water to remove bacteria, mold, and residue.
• In hot weather, nectar spoils faster. Use this guide to know how often to replace it and clean the feeder:
  • 70–75℉ (21-24℃): every 5 days
  • 76–81℉ (25-27℃): every 4 days
  • 82–86℉ (28-30℃): every 3 days
  • 87–90℉ (31-32℃): every 2 days
  • Over 90℉ (Over 32℃): daily refresh!

4. What If Hummingbirds Aren’t Visiting My Feeder?

• Spoiled nectar will harm hummingbirds. Always keep it fresh.
• Hang the feeder in a visible spot, ideally 10-15 feet (3-4.5 meters) from shrubs or trees that provide nearby shelter.
• If possible, place it in partial shade to slow nectar spoilage.
• Plant native flowers that attract hummingbirds naturally. Some examples include Cardinal Flower, Bee Balm, and Trumpet Honeysuckle.

5. Dealing with Ants and Bees

• Use an ant moat filled with water to block ants from reaching the nectar.
• Clean the feeder thoroughly to remove sugar residue that may attract bees.
• Relocate the feeder. Bees memorize exact locations and often won’t search for it if it moves.
• Bees are especially drawn to the color yellow—keep feeders away from yellow decorations or flowers.

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