Why You Should Put Out Hummingbird Feeders in Spring

Hummingbirds start migrating north when days begin to lengthen and sunlight reaches a certain angle. Their northern migration generally aligns with the bloom times of spring flowers. When their arrival doesn't align with blooming flowers, hummingbirds can find themselves without reliable food sources unless they encounter a well-placed nectar feeder along the way.

Hummingbirds sometimes arrive in northern gardens earlier than expected, or they may arrive after spring flowers fade. Having nectar feeders out in time for their return gives hummingbirds much-needed food after their long journey and encourages them to stay in your garden through the coming months.

Best Time to Put Out Hummingbird Feeders

In areas where hummingbirds migrate south during winter, place hummingbird feeders outdoors about two weeks before they are expected to return. This ensures that early arrivals have access to food after their migration. Male hummingbirds often migrate a week or two before females and may arrive at destinations earlier.

In warmer areas where hummingbirds remain year-round, feeders can be left outside throughout the year. In colder areas, feeders can remain out through fall or longer to provide food for late migrants.

Leaving a feeder out does not disrupt hummingbird migration. They rely on instinct and changes in daylight to determine when to migrate.

In the Southeastern United States, place hummingbird feeders outside in February or March.

In the Midwest and Northeastern United States and Canada, hummingbirds arrive later, so place feeders outdoors in mid- to late April.

In many areas of the Southwest, West Coast, and Gulf Coast, some hummingbird species remain active year-round, so feeders can be left outside throughout the year. If frost is expected, bring feeders indoors at night and return them outside when temperatures rise.

Tips for Using Hummingbird Feeders

1. Use Less Nectar in Spring

There aren't as many hummingbirds early in the year, so avoid filling feeders completely. Fill them about one-third full and add more nectar as additional hummingbirds arrive.

2. Clean Feeders Regularly

Clean hummingbird feeders twice a week during hot weather and once a week when temperatures are cool. Use hot water, a hummingbird feeder brush, and a diluted vinegar solution made with one part vinegar and two parts water.

3. Skip Red Dyes

Synthetic red dye isn't necessary for hummingbirds, especially when using a red feeder. Use clear hummingbird nectar or make your own nectar with water and refined white sugar.

4. Hang Feeders in Shade

Hanging feeders in light shade helps prevent nectar from spoiling quickly. Nectar should still be replaced every three to five days.

5. Protect Feeders From Pests

Ants and bees can be problematic around hummingbird feeders. An ant moat can help keep ants away. Avoid petroleum-based products such as petroleum jelly, which can harm hummingbirds.

6. Space Feeders Out

If you use multiple hummingbird feeders, place them at least 10 feet apart. Male hummingbirds are territorial and may fight other males that approach their feeding areas.

7. Grow Native Plants

Hummingbird feeders work best alongside nectar-rich plants. Native plants such as cardinal flowers, bee balm, and columbines are particularly attractive to hummingbirds and add color to flower beds.

Consider planting native red or orange tubular flowers near your feeders.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do hummingbirds come back to the same place every year?

Hummingbirds often return to the same gardens and feeders each year when those gardens provide the food and resources they need. Keeping feeders filled with fresh nectar in spring can help attract them back.

How do Anna's hummingbirds survive the winter?

Anna's hummingbirds are year-round residents along the Pacific Coast and are often seen at feeders during winter. During cold weather, they enter a state of torpor that slows their heart rate and breathing, helping them withstand low temperatures.

Should I be worried that my hummingbird feeder is contributing to the spread of bird flu?

Public health officials have not recommended removing bird feeders because of avian influenza. However, feeders and bird baths should be cleaned regularly to help prevent the spread of viruses and bacteria.