Maintaining Your Hummingbird Feeder

Hummingbird feeders are a great way to observe these beautiful birds while providing them a source of energy! Feeders can be especially important to Anna’s Hummingbird, a species that stays throughout the year, and to other species that may be delayed in their migration. While it may seem like a simple thing, hummingbird feeders require more attention than just filling them with sugar water.

To make sure that our feeders do not harm hummingbirds’ delicate systems, we must maintain the feeders carefully.

Here are some tips on how your feeder can provide an optimal source of energy to our colourful feathered friends:

1. Choose your feeder wisely: Choose a feeder that you will be willing and able to clean. The size of the feeder you pick should match the hummingbird population in your area. If you do purchase a feeder that is too large, do not fill it completely.
2. The composition of your feeder solution is important:

• Type of sugar: Non-organic, cane, or beet sugars are the only sugars, that should be used for your nectar. The sugars must be pure white to ensure the molasses has been removed. Molasses is high in iron and can be toxic to hummingbirds. Sugar substitutes and honey can be just as dangerous for them.
• Type of water: Like sugar, purity is preferred. Springwater is preferable, but it is also okay to use tap water.
• Solution recipe: The recommended sugar: water ratio is one cup of sugar to four cups of water.

3. Maintaining your feeder: Freshness and purity are important. Therefore, the nectar should not just be topped up but changed every four to five days. The feeder must be washed before it is refilled to prevent bacteria and mold growth. It is recommended that you hang your feeder at least four feet off the ground, away from trees, and in the shade if possible.

By following these guidelines, we can ensure that our feeders will safely attract and nourish these beautiful birds. Check out our Ultimate Hummingbird Feeder Guide here!

Thank you for Supporting Your Local Wildlife Today!

Posted in Education
Tags: annas hummingbird, bc birds, bc hummingbirds, bird feeders, coldsnaps, hummingbirds, maintain your feeder, wildlife, wildlife rescue bc, winter birds