Hummingbird Feeder: When Should It Go Out?
This question was asked by a visitor. The answer to this question depends on where you live.
But, Wherever You are, Hummingbird Feeders Should Go Out Early!
It is always a good idea to hang your Hummingbird Feeders a couple of weeks earlier than you expect the Hummers to return.
Hummingbirds return to the location of feeders that they have used in previous years.
I have experienced their return before I had my feeders out and was alerted to their arrival by their swooping past my kitchen window repeatedly as if to say:
“Hey, we’re back but you are obviously not
ready!”
When spring is early it is a good idea to hang your feeders out even earlier. Of course, exactly when it depends on where you are located.
Some years they can be a good 2 weeks earlier than most years, so being ahead of the little birds by preparing early is key.
Hummingbird Feeder, When Should It Go Out?
When Is the Right Time to Feed Hummingbirds?
If you are not sure when your Hummers are due to arrive back, keep track of their progress with the spring migration maps that track Hummingbirds return north each year.
This will assist you in getting your feeders out in time for their return. You will be
able to determine from watching their progress when would be a good time
to get your feeders prepared.
It’s best to start watching the map in February every year which will help you see how far they travel
in a week to determine how early to hang your feeder outside.
You can also look at earlier years and decide a likely date from that data too.
You may even decide to report the date when you first see them at your own feeders which will help others farther north from you!
Hummingbird Migration Map
Follow various types of Hummingbird spring migration at
If you would like more information about Hummers migration you will find it here: Migration Route of the Ruby Throated Hummingbird
When Hanging Your Hummingbird Feeders Early?
When you hang your feeders out early it is very important to keep the syrup fresh by cleaning your hummingbird feeders and changing the syrup, even though you may not have Hummingbirds feeding at them yet.
If the syrup is allowed to hang in the sun, even though the temperatures outside may not be high, the syrup could become rancid and make your wild birds sick.
So change your syrup twice a week until they return. Then increase the frequency to every second day and when it is very hot, every day.
Then everyone will enjoy this wonderful pastime more.
Happy birding!
Judy
Get new supplies for feeding Hummingbirds here.
Best Nectar Feeders & Accessories
Nectar Feeders With 1-5 Gold Star Ratings
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Important Hummingbird Feeder Accessories
Your Hummingbirds will love these!
Just place them in your existing birdbath and plug them in.
They come with their own pump.
About Habitat & Behaviour
- Hummingbird Mating is truly a joy to witness! Their flaming gorgets which attract mates also wins our hearts.
- Take the Hummingbirds Quiz and test your knowledge of the smallest avian member of the animal kingdom.
Hummingbird FAQ’s
- Hummingbirds Don’t Like Food What Can We Do, Our Hummingbirds Don’t Like Our Food?
We have been feeding the hummers all spring and summer with homemade nectar
- What is Drinking My Hummingbird Nectar at Night? There are many possibilities, but 2 culprits are most common.
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