Even the most dedicated bird lover will likely make mistakes that will make hummingbirds go look for friendlier areas. Hummingbirds are more sensitive than most people realize. I have come to appreciate how people do not realize that they are unknowingly driving away these visitors to their gardens. Hummingbirds have always been a delight to see in my garden.
Bring Hummingbirds Right To Your Window!
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Pesticides are toxic to small insects that hummingbirds eat, and also to the birds themselves because pesticides make nectar (which is food for the birds) toxic. Use natural pest control methods, and also keep the feeding sites away from treated areas.
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2. Bright Colors Around Feeders
While wearing bright colors may startle the hummingbirds and divert their attention from your feeders, they can be attracted to red clothing. Because they are territorial, they may see the people in bright colors as competition or threats. Instead, try to wear neutral or earth-toned colors when around the feeders.
3. Making Sudden Movements
Sudden movements near feeding zones can scare these naturally timid birds. Birds have finely developed survival instincts and tend to avoid anything that could be a predator. Be calm, and deliberate so that you do not frighten them while they are feeding.
4. Placing Feeders Too Close to Windows
The way the hoppers are positioned as well as the position of the windows can make the bird feeders outside your window dangerous for hummingbirds. For the feeders to be more stress-free for the little flying beauties, and to reduce the chances of fatal collisions, try to either mount the feeders directly to the window using suction cup hooks, or place the feeders further away from the window by at least 15 feet.
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5. Using Artificial Sweeteners
Some individuals think adding sugar substitutes to their nectar is healthier. In reality, this can be detrimental to hummingbirds and can even drive them away. Simply use the basic 4:1 ratio of water to plain white sugar. That is what these birds need to support their high-energy lifestyle.
6. Pet Hunting Near the Feeders
Hummingbirds will not feed if there are dogs and cats around. Your pets don't even have to catch birds in order to create stress and anxiety around the feeders. Store feeders in places your pets can't reach, and during peak feeding times, keep pets inside.
7. Not Providing Natural Cover
Hummingbirds need safe places to rest near feeders. If feeders are out in the open without natural coverage from trees or tall shrubs that are 10 to 15 feet away, they will be more exposed and will not come to the feeders. To improve the environment and provide shelter, use native nectar plants.
8. Using Noisy Garden Equipment
Most birds are scared off by noise and disturbances from lawnmowers, leaf blowers, or other garden tools. To minimize the impact of your yard work on the birds, try to schedule your yard work during off-peak times like mid-day when the feeders are the least busy with hummingbirds. You may want to consider creating a noise-free zone around the feeding stations.
9. Maintaining Dirty Feeders
Hummingbirds love nectar, but dirty feeders can cause them to avoid your yard. Hummingbirds can tell when nectar is spoiled or when it is starting to grow mold. Keep your visiting birds happy and clean your feeders every couple of days in warm weather and at least once a week when it is cooler.
10. Creating Wind Tunnels
Where you place feeders is important because if you place them in windy areas between buildings or structures it will be more difficult for the small birds to feed as it will be more windy and will blow away the small birds. Hummingbirds prefer areas with less wind and where they can stabilize their hover. Therefore, feeders should be placed in areas where there is a good amount of shelter from the wind and drafts.
11. Overcrowded Feeding Stations
Although it seems logical to place feeders next to each other, this will likely cause behavioral conflicts and exclude non-aggressive birds. Keep feeders spaced out at least 10 to 15 feet. It is also helpful to ensure that feeders are out of each other's line of sight. This will reduce the amount of aggressive competition at feeders and allow for more birds to feed simultaneously.
