• Choose a feeder that you are able and willing to clean.
• Look for a feeder that has the ports above the pool of liquid to avoid drips, because drips will attract ants and bees.
• Use feeder(s) whose size matches your population.
• Don’t fill the feeders all the way if they aren’t being fully consumed between fillings.
• More feeders will support more hummingbirds and help reduce territoriality.
• Change the mixture every four to five days - more frequently if temperatures are over 90° F.
• If the liquid appears cloudy or you see mold, wash the feeder thoroughly right away.
• Put your feeders at least four feet above the ground so they are beyond the reach of cats and other predators
• Never place a feeder too close to a nest, because doing so may cause predation.
• If possible, the feeder should be in a shady spot.
• Placing the feeder where you can see them through the window is a good idea too!
• Feeders must be cleaned between re-fillings - don’t “top off” without cleaning.
• Use a mild detergent (such as dish soap) and water; rinse thoroughly.
• About once a month, soak the feeder in a solution of bleach and water (1 Tbsp. of bleach per quart of water); rinse very thoroughly!
• Some feeders can be put in the dishwasher for sterilization.
• If your feeder is attracting ants, use a moat or AntGuard® to stop them.

If you find an injured Hummingbird, please call our Bird Hotline at (310) 378-9921.

Tips provided by The Hummingbird Society

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