If you are an avid hummingbird lover, then to attract more of these feather creatures, you can set up a birdfeeder specially meant for hummingbirds in your backyard. There are primarily two types of hummingbird feeders to choose from – saucer federer and inverted feeder and both have their pros and cons. So, based on your preferences and budget you have to choose the feeder style that suits the birds in your locality.
So, let’s get to the details.
Types of Hummingbird Feeders
Hummingbird feeders are mainly of two types but many other variants are also available in the market:
Saucer Feeders
A saucer feeder is similar to a small saucer-like dish, which you have to fill with nectar solution. This hummingbird feeder is designed in such a way that the dish has ports above the reservoir where the hummingbird can dip its beak into the liquid nectar and suck it up. However, this feeder requires frequent refills and you must clean it after the hummingbirds have left. Most importantly you have to wait patiently until the hummingbirds can recognise this feeder or get attracted to it and keep coming back; because it is not quite easily visible to the hummingbird.
Inverted Feeder
If you are trying to install an inverted feeder for the hummingbird, then it comes with a central retainer which is suspended over the feeding spots. Thus, the nectar is released automatically from the top. This hummingbird feeder is beneficial as all the ports are filled to the optimum and at all times. It is also easy and has a higher capacity when compared with other feeder styles, but you need to hang these feeders at a safe location so that the hummingbirds can come without feeling threatened. Also, there are chances of leakage with time and you also have to be very careful while cleaning them.
Tube Bird Feeder
A tube bird feeder is available in a variety of sizes. They are easy to clean, durable and quite popular as a hummingbird feeder. They can be a little expensive when compared with other feeders but are capable of attracting hummingbirds easily.
Hopper Feeder
The hopper feeder looks similar to the tube feeder, but they have a small storage and can hold the network for several days. So, if you are living in an area where the hummingbird appears only for a short period every year, then this can prove to be beneficial.
Window Feeder
If you want to watch the hummingbirds without disturbing them or making them alert of your presence, then get a window feeder. They come in a variety of shapes and sizes, however, these are difficult to clean and can easily get damaged due to natural elements, as the material is not quite durable.
How to Choose the Right Hummingbird Feeder?
When you are choosing the right hummingbird feeder, there are certain factors that you need to consider such as:
Material of the Feeder
You have to understand the construction material of the feeder. There are different types of materials available such as glass, plastic, and metal. You have to decide which one is required and which would fit your budget. With time you will find the plastic feeders are getting discolored and you have to replace them. The glass feeder can also break easily. The metal feeder will not break or wrap or get discoloured but the nectar can get fermented very quickly. So, based on the different pros and cons, choose the one that suits you best
Colour
Hummingbirds are said to get attracted to the red and yellow colour when compared to others. So, you have to buy a bird feeder that is reddish or has a yellowish tone.
Capacity of the Feeder
If you want to attract a large number of hummingbirds, then you have to check the capacity of the feeder. The more the capacity, the more birds will be attracted. However, a large feeder would be a bad idea for the yard, if you have only a few hummingbirds in your locality as the nectar will start to ferment. So, conduct research well and understand whether the bird comes occasionally or every day. Also, the number of feeder ports should be enough for a large flock of hummingbirds otherwise due to natural competitiveness the hummingbirds might not visit the place.
Placement
You have to find the right place where you can hang the birdfeeder. Keep it away from glass windows, otherwise, there are chances that the hummingbirds can fly straight to the glass window and break their neck. It should have the option to either hang it or place it on a pedestal.
Insect Guard
To protect the bird from insects such as bees and ants, especially during the summer, you need an insect guard. This will ensure that the feeder is available only for the hummingbird.
Type of Net
The type of nectar you are going to use in the feeder is also important. Usually, the preferred formula is one part sugar to four parts water. Some hummingbird feeders come with special nectar mixes which are specifically meant for the hummingbirds. So, read the label and conduct research and make an informed decision, if you are not sure which type of nectar bird feeder you need.
Easy to Clean
The hummingbird feeder should be easy to clean as the nectar can get fermented. Pay special attention to their feeding environment if dirt or debris is accumulating in the feeder then the birds might not revert, as they like a well-maintained surrounding. So, go for an easy-to-clean design or you can get a birdfeeder which can be cleaned in the dishwasher. A clean bird feeder would also ensure that the feather creatures are safe from diseases and other contamination.
Durability
Go through the brand or label of the hummingbird feeder to understand its durability. It should be built to last for a long time. Hummingbirds are quite delicate, so they won’t be able to knock down the hummingbird feeder; however, weather and other animals have the probability of damaging it. So, look for the one which is made up of high-quality material and has a strong and secured base.
What are the Types of Hummingbird Feeders based on Nectar?
Based on nectar, hummingbird feeders are of two types – some have sugar water while others use honey or artificial nectar.
How to Clean a Hummingbird Feeder?
Cleaning a hummingbird feeder can take a few minutes.
- Remove the feeder from the hanging position and take out all the nectar.
- Now, use warm water in the feeder and remove the built-in sugar particles.
- Make a mixture of one part vinegar and 4 parts water, soak the feeder into it for 30 minutes and this will kill all the bacteria and mold present in it.
- Finally, you have to use cool water to rinse the feeder and allow it to air dry.
- When the cleaning process is done fill the feeder with nectar and hang it back to its position.
When is the Best Time to Put Up a Hummingbird Feeder?
Hummingbirds are migratory, so you have to understand at what time of the year they are present in your area. You can put up a hummingbird feeder during spring when they start returning to the area or continue to put it up until early fall when they begin migration towards the south. If they get used to a consistent source of food they would definitely come back to your backyard.
What Kind of Sugar Should You Avoid for Hummingbirds?
Never use organic sugar, raw sugar, powdered sugar, brown sugar or turbinado in the hummingbird feeder. These contain additives which are toxic for the birds and prove to be fatal for them.
Which is the Perfect Place to Hang the Hummingbird Feeder?
To attract the hummingbirds you should hang the feeder in an area which is mostly shady so that the nectar does not get spoiled by the sun. However, it must receive some amount of sunlight to reflect off the nectar, which would attract the hummingbird. You must also hang the hummingbird at an eye level away from predators and make the birds feel safe and comfortable.
