These eight tips for feeding hummingbirds are sure to help you attract hummingbirds by appealing to their hungry attitudes and meeting their unique nutritional needs. Avoid spraying pesticides or insecticides that would remove these natural food sources, and plan a hummingbird garden with the top nectar blooms to attract hungry hummers. The more varied your hummingbird food sources, the more birds you attract and the healthier they will be. Avoid using any dyed products, however, including red food dye, colored juices, or other additives, as these chemicals could be harmful to hummingbirds and are not necessary for their diets. Consider both glass and plastic feeders, as well as designs with just one feeding port or multiple access points. Feeders with and without perches may also appeal to different hummingbirds. Different feeder sizes can also accommodate different feeding preferences. Placing feeders in an area free from breezes and out of direct sunlight minimizes spilled nectar and slows fermentation to keep nectar fresh and safe. To help the birds find your feeders, place them near nectar-producing flowers or other colorful accents in your yard, particularly red decorations that will catch these birds’ eyes. Avoid feeders with yellow ports or decorations, since yellow is attractive to bees and wasps. Do not put oil or sticky products on feeder poles, as these products can stick to birds’ feathers and make it difficult for them to preen. Also avoid insecticides that could contaminate feeders and be toxic, even deadly, to these tiny birds. When cleaning a hummingbird feeder, take great care to thoroughly sanitize all nooks and crannies to get rid of all mold, fungus, old nectar, or crystallized sugar. Soaking a disassembled feeder in very hot water can be an easy way to remove sticky residue. Similarly, opt for early and late-blooming nectar flowers for a long-lasting hummingbird garden. You may be surprised at just how early and late these birds will visit, and how much they’ll appreciate a nutritious meal to help them refuel!
