The first step is to purchase a good feeder equipped with a bee guard. Certain hummingbird feeders are equipped with built-in bee guards. Our top pick is still a plastic option, because of its ideal design for both people and birds. Set up Bee Guards If you want to design your hummingbird feeder bee-proof, you will need to modify the feeding holes to smaller to prevent bees and other insects from entering. Glass is a more sustainable material, because it can be used for years and recycled, and feeders made from glass are not as fragile as you may think (most are constructed of thick glass reminiscent of an old-fashioned soda bottle). ![]() However, when researching feeders, we didn't find many sustainable options. ![]() Many of the feeders on this list are made from plastic, which we don't love here at Treehugger. It’s important to keep the feeder clean, so make sure it comes apart easily for cleaning. Some feeders include an ant moat, which you fill with tap water to keep them away from the feeding ports. You also can purchase an ant moat separately. They’re somewhat helpful, but avoid yellow bee guards, which actually attract bees. Some feeders have bee guards, screens meant to discourage insects from feeding on the nectar. That means you might get a chance to admire them for a little more time.īirds aren’t the only creatures that like a sweet drink. This feeder boasts a special process that ensures it is leak-proof. The vibrant color and unique design make the feeder irresistible to hummingbirds. The built-in ant moat blocks crawling insects and the patented Nectar-Guard tips (optional) on the feeding ports prevent bees, wasps, and other flying insects. However, a feeder with a perch gives hummingbirds a place to rest as they eat, and may encourage them to stay longer. Outdoor Hummingbird Haven Check On Amazon Attract a plethora of hummingbirds to your yard with this stunning hand-blown glass hummingbird feeder. Hummingbirds can gather nectar as they hover in the the air. Cuboid 2-in-1 Hummingbird Feeder: Window or Tree Attachment, Ant Moat, Bee Guards, Detachable Lid, 8 oz Capacity (+Free Brush) Check Price. Remember to never add red coloring to the nectar itself, because coloring may be harmful to the hummingbirds. 16oz Hanging Hummingbird Feeder with 5 Feeding Ports, Ant Moat & Bee Proof, No Leaks Attract More Hummingbirds (1 Pack) Check Price. That’s why all the feeders on this list feature red elements. Set up Bee Guards If you want to design your hummingbird feeder bee-proof, you will need to modify the feeding holes to smaller to prevent bees and other insects from entering. What to Look For in a Hummingbird Feeder Redįeeders usually have red and other bright colors to catch the attention of hummingbirds, because hummingbirds have learned to associate red flowers with a good meal. Our budget pick, First Nature Hummingbird Feeder, also is simple to clean and wallet-friendly if you’re planning to provide more than one feeder for these winged wonders. It is of a different and less expensive brand, but of the same model as the Aspects Hummzinger Hummingbird Feeder.Our top pick is Aspects Hummzinger High View Hummingbird Feeder for its ease of cleaning and lifetime warranty. If you’re planning to get new hummingbird feeders, here is a link to one for sale at Amazon. I own an Aspects Hummzinger, and have found it to be a very useful and decent feeder. The best place to put hummingbird feeders is in a shaded area away from predators and pests, preferably near flowers, shrubs, and trees. The flowers will provide an extra source of food, the trees will provide nesting places, and the shrubs will provide cover.īasically, the best hummingbird feeders are red dish/saucer feeders with tiny openings or bee guards, ant moats, perches, and multiple ports. ![]() Preferably, hang them near flowers, shrubs, and trees. You should hang your feeders in the shade because this will help the nectar last a little longer.ĭo not hang them near beehives, anthills, or places where predators (such as cats) frequent. (I know from experience that tube feeders leak.) Smaller holes allow access to hummingbirds but prevent bugs from crawling inside.Īlso, tube feeders are more likely to draw insects because they leak, so I recommend dish/saucer feeders. If ants are a problem, you definitely want an ant moat. You can try getting different feeders with smaller holes or adding nectar guards to your current feeders if bees/wasps are a problem. For this reason, I’m surprised you had less bugs on your orange hummingbird feeder. ![]() However, insects like bees, wasps, and ants, who will try to steal the sugar-water from feeders, are colorblind to red, so it is an overall better choice if you want less bugs. I LOVE hummingbirds, and you are right, their migration has started, so now is the ideal time to be putting out your hummingbird feeders.Īs you mentioned, hummingbirds are attracted to the color red, but orange, yellow, and pink will suffice as well.
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