Quick Answer
Yes, it is fine to put a hummingbird feeder near a bird feeder as long as some precautions are taken. The main concerns are that larger birds may frighten away hummingbirds or prevent them from accessing the nectar feeders. As long as the hummingbird feeder is placed an appropriate distance from the bird feeder, and measures are taken to discourage larger birds, the two can coexist nicely.
Bird Feeder Considerations
When placing a hummingbird feeder near a bird feeder, it’s important to consider the type of bird feeder and the birds it attracts. Larger bird feeders that attract bigger birds like grackles, jays, and blackbirds are more likely to be problematic. These larger, aggressive birds may bully hummingbirds away from feeders.
Smaller bird feeders that attract finches, chickadees, nuthatches and woodpeckers are better companions for hummingbird feeders. These smaller birds are less likely to intimidate hummingbirds. Also consider using a bird feeder design that has weight sensitive perches. This restricts access to heavier birds while allowing lighter hummingbirds to feed.
Place the bird feeder at least 10-15 feet away from the hummingbird feeder. This creates some separation and allows hummingbirds to access their feeder without the larger birds directly competing.
Hummingbird Feeder Placement
When placing hummingbird feeders, look for a spot that provides some protection and cover. Near trees, shrubs, or other plants gives hummingbirds a place to perch and rest between feedings. However, make sure the location you choose does not provide cover and perches for larger birds that may chase hummingbirds away.
Hang the hummingbird feeder using a pulley system or mount that allows you to easily raise or lower it. Mounting it at eye level makes filling and cleaning easier. Just make sure it is high enough that large birds cannot perch on top and prevent access. Raising it out of reach of larger birds may be necessary if they become problematic.
Use a feeder design with perches too small for larger birds. Many hummingbird feeders have tiny perches suitable only for the weight of hummingbirds. Avoid wide open feeder designs that allow larger birds to perch and feed. Consider using feeding ports with bee guards to limit access even more.
Discouraging Bully Birds
Sometimes larger aggressive birds become problematic at hummingbird feeders, chasing the smaller birds away. Here are some tips to prevent this:
– Move feeders farther apart to eliminate competition.
– Use feeders with small perches, ports, and bee guards.
– Employ “squirrel baffles” above feeders to prevent perching.
– Remove nearby perches and cover that birds use to wait in ambush.
– Use feeders with weight or electronic sensors that close access when heavy birds land.
– Employ deterrents like reflective tape, balloons, or plastic owls.
– Stop feeding large birds for a period of time until they seek food elsewhere.
If an aggressive bird continues to be problematic, it may be necessary to remove the bird feeder and focus just on hummingbirds for a period of time. Once the bully bird finds a new routine, you can try again more carefully.
Nectar and Food Considerations
Use only real sugar nectar in hummingbird feeders – never honey or artificial sweeteners. The nectar recipe of 1 part sugar to 4 parts water is ideal. Avoid adding food coloring, as this provides no benefit and can potentially harm the birds.
Clean feeders and change nectar frequently to prevent fermentation and bacteria. Hummingbird nectar spoils much more quickly than bird seed. Follow a regular cleaning schedule based on temperature and humidity.
When providing bird seed, focus on smaller varieties like nyjer, safflower and sunflower chips. Avoid cheaper mixed seed blends that attract larger birds. Also, use a bird feeder that catches spilled seeds to avoid attracting rodents near the hummingbird area.
Other Nearby Food Sources
Avoid placing hummingbird feeders right next to flowering plants or fruit trees. While hummingbirds will feed on natural nectar sources, these can also attract other birds and bees.
Having flowering plants within sight of feeders is great, but they should be at least 10 feet away to prevent competing animal traffic. Also take care when using an ornamental water feature or bird bath near feeders, as these communal water sources can bring in larger birds.
Conclusions
Here are some key tips for successfully placing hummingbird feeders with bird feeders:
Do | Don’t |
---|---|
– Separate feeders by 10-15 feet | – Place feeders directly adjacent |
– Use small perches and ports | – Use open feeder designs accessible to large birds |
– Target finches, chickadees, woodpeckers | – Attract jays, grackles, blackbirds |
– Provide shrubs/trees for cover | – Create perches for bully birds to wait in ambush |
With some planning, you can certainly place hummingbird feeders safely near bird feeders for your enjoyment. Just be strategic in your setup, choose feeders wisely, discourage aggressive birds, and keep nectar fresh. With a few simple precautions, you’ll be able to observe both hummingbirds and songbirds visiting your yard.