The 9 BEST Hummingbird Feeders (That Work in 2023!)
Finding the best hummingbird feeders is not as easy as it sounds!
There are hundreds of different options and styles, which leads to many questions: Should my feeder be made of plastic or glass? Are the expensive hummingbird feeders the best? Is this nectar feeder easy to clean?
It can be confusing, but this list of the 9 BEST hummingbird feeders should help.
I’ve organized this post into a few different sections, depending on the type of hummingbird feeder you want. (Best overall, window, or unique)
Table of Contents: The Best Hummingbird Feeders
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Overall Best Feeders for Hummingbirds (2 options)
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WINDOW Hummingbird Feeders (3 options)
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UNIQUE Hummingbird Feeders (4 options)
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7 Tips When Choosing a Hummingbird Feeder: Highly recommended to read for beginners!
The Overall BEST Hummingbird Feeders (2)
These two hummingbird feeders work well, even though they have different designs. They attract hummingbirds, are easy to clean, don’t leak, and are sturdy.
#1. Aspects HummZinger Hummingbird Feeder
One reason why this nectar feeder works so well is because of its simple dish design. The sugar water sits in the glass dish BELOW the feeding ports. This design makes cleaning the feeder incredibly easy since there are no hard-to-reach areas way up inside a skinny bottle.
Another benefit of dish-style hummingbird feeders is they DON’T LEAK!
In addition, there is a built-in ant moat, which is very effective at preventing these insects from accessing the nectar. Just make sure to remember to fill it with water. (Speaking from experience 🙂 )
This 12 oz model has four feeding ports. If you want a bigger option, the HummZinger also comes in a 16 oz model with six feeding ports.
This product is definitely one of the BEST hummingbird feeders on the market. It’s a bit more expensive than some other options, but it’s worth the extra cost. You should have no hassle or frustration with cleaning or leaking nectar. It just works!
#2. First Nature Hummingbird Feeder
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As you can see, with this hummingbird feeder, the nectar sits ABOVE the feeding ports. The sugar water then drains down as it’s eaten. This style is referred to as a “bottle” design.
I think this is one of the best hummingbird feeders around because it doesn’t leak. I’ve personally used it for many years and have had much success!
The only time nectar has spilled is during EXTREME wind storms. You definitely don’t want a leaky nectar feeder, as the leftover sugar residue will attract ants and hornets!
Here are some other things that I like:
- The bottle that holds the nectar is relatively wide and simple to disassemble, making it easy to get inside and clean.
- It has 10 feeding ports on the 16-ounce model (pictured above), so there are plenty of spots for hummers to feed. However, if you have lots of hummingbirds and require a larger feeder, you will want to check out the 32-ounce model!
Want to see this hummingbird feeder in action in my yard?
Just press PLAY above! I set up my iPhone on a tripod and got incredible videos of my hummingbirds.
The 3 Best WINDOW Hummingbird Feeders
There is no better way to get close to hummingbirds than to buy a quality window hummingbird feeder. Hummingbird feeders that hang from your window are a lot of fun and make a great addition to any outdoor space.
If you’re concerned that putting up a window feeder will make hummingbirds start crashing into your windows, I want you to know that you shouldn’t worry. 🙂 Putting a feeder directly on your window actually helps to keep birds safe since they are close enough to know the window is there and that they need to fly in the other direction if frightened.
Honestly, putting a hummingbird feeder on a window should help PREVENT collisions on that window. The feeder breaks up the space and light reflection, letting all birds know that the window can’t be flown through.
#3. Aspects Window Hummingbird Feeder
This 8 oz window hummingbird feeder is one of the best available.
It includes three feeding ports AND perches for the hummingbirds, so they can sit while they eat. Once the hummers found this feeder at my house (it took a few days), they loved it and started visiting it multiple times per day.
The nectar reservoir comes out easily since it is NOT ATTACHED to the suction cups, which is super convenient for cleaning and refilling.
Check out my video review of the Aspects Jewel Box ABOVE!
And since the feeder has a simple dish design, the nectar can’t leak out and make your window sticky and gross. I also like that the flower feeding ports are raised, which helps divert rain and ensures the nectar doesn’t become diluted.
The two suction cups work great, and I’ve had no issues with the feeder sticking to my window. It helps a lot that the reservoir is small and only holds 8oz of nectar.
This Aspects Window Hummingbird Feeder even includes an ant moat! (This can be detached if ants are not a problem)
#4. Nature Anywhere Hummingbird Feeder
As far as appearance goes, this window hummingbird feeder is one of my favorites! I especially like the white flower feeding ports and how the bottle is skinnier at the bottom (even though this makes cleaning a bit more challenging).
Nature Anywhere includes THREE “industrial strength” suction cups, so you should have no problems with the feeder falling off your window. I like how the suction cups are attached to a bracket that the nectar reservoir snaps into, making refilling and cleaning much simpler.
If you have an active backyard with lots of hummingbirds, you will appreciate this feeder’s larger size, which holds up to 16 ounces of nectar! And refilling it is easy, as the bottom easily unscrews to provide access.
Lastly, Nature Anywhere provides a LIFETIME GUARANTEE. So if it leaks or breaks, they say to email them, and they will send a new one.
#5. Woodlink Window Feeder Hanger
First, I know that this is not an actual hummingbird feeder!
But please hear me out because this hook may be the BEST window hummingbird feeder you buy. The reason is that this hook allows many of your existing feeders (hummingbird or not) to hang off your window.
- RELATED: The 15 Best Bird Feeders In MY Backyard (Recently Updated!)
I use this hook all the time on our kitchen windows. It allows me to rotate the feeders that I want to feature.
For example, I typically have my First Nature hummingbird feeder (#2 above) out during the warm summer months. When the hummingbirds migrate south (I live in Ohio), I put out a tube feeder filled with sunflower seeds, which attracts finches, chickadees, woodpeckers, etc.
Just be mindful of the weight of the feeder you will be hanging from this hook. It’s advertised as being able to support 4 pounds (1.8 kg). However, you may need to experiment with how much weight it can hold from your specific window.
The 4 Best Unique Hummingbird Feeders
Are you bored of the traditional look of most hummingbird feeders? Lucky for you, there is a whole world of beautiful and unique hummingbird feeders that can add some personality to your garden or patio.
Unfortunately, many of these non-traditional hummingbird feeders look GREAT but are not functional. They either leak, break easily, or hummingbirds never end up using them.
The unique hummingbird feeders below should give you a good start and point you in the right direction. However, if you don’t find something you like, keep exploring because the manufacturers featured below have MANY more designs available.
#6. Nature’s Way Blown Glass Feeder
This blown glass hummingbird feeder is both beautiful AND functional.
The top is easy to remove, and the opening is wide, so it’s simple to fill and clean. The rings on the outside serve as perfect perches to let hummingbirds relax. This option gives a modern decorative look to your feeder collection.
The glass is relatively thick, giving the feeder a nice sturdy feel. While hummingbirds don’t necessarily care about the aesthetics of your feeder, it will look great in your garden!
- RELATED: 7 BEST Glass Hummingbird Feeders!
Best Feature: The hanging frame doubles as a perch, giving your hummingbirds a spot to rest as they take a drink!
#7. Grateful Gnome Glass Hummingbird Feeder
This hand-blown glass hummingbird feeder is gorgeous!
But what I like best about this feeder is that it’s functional. It not only attracts lots of hummingbirds, but it holds lots of nectar and includes perches for the hummingbirds to rest. In addition, you shouldn’t have any trouble with the base leaking with the included rubber ring, and it’s easy to take apart to refill the nectar and clean.
Don’t like the design or colors of this specific feeder?
I recommend checking out all of the unique hummingbird feeders that Grateful Gnome offers. This design (Blue Egg With Flowers) was my favorite, but they have many different models available.
Best Feature: Grateful Gnome has so many choices for color and shape that you’re sure to find the perfect hummingbird feeder for you!
#8. ZUMMR Hummingbird Ring Feeder
This ring is the coolest hummingbird feeder on the list.
Seriously, just look at how close you will get to the hummers! A tiny reservoir for nectar is attached to a ring, which you can wear on your finger.
If you stay still, with a bit of training (and luck), you may get a hummingbird to come right up and say hello.
Watch this hummingbird feeder in action below!
Although quite a few colors are available, I recommend sticking to the RED flower. It will attract more hummingbirds than other colors. The best way to get hummingbirds to feel comfortable enough to feed from your hand is to train them! Here’s what I recommend you do:
First, buy the trainer stand picture above that Zummr makes. Then, place the ring feeder inside the stand and set it outside, either on a cup or attached to your window. This way, your hummingbirds will get used to drinking nectar from the ring feeder and not have to worry about YOU making them feel uncomfortable.
Once you observe hummingbirds drinking regularly from the ring, it’s time for you to put it on and sit outside. With a bit of patience, you should hopefully be able to watch hummingbirds from only a few feet away!
#9. Netvue Birdfy Hummingbird Feeder Camera
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This option is definitely the most fun hummingbird feeder!
If you look at the picture above, you will see that the Netvue Birdfy Hummingbird Feeder has a camera built directly into the design. This camera allows you to watch YOUR hummingbirds directly from your phone! 🙂
The app makes it easy to record or capture interesting moments that can be shared quickly and easily. In addition, you can set up notifications to be alerted every time a hummingbird comes to the feeder. The camera is 1080p, which gives incredibly clear video and pictures of the hummers that visit!
Please note the feeder must be close enough to your house to connect to your Wifi to work.
One negative to this hummingbird feeder is that you have to recharge the batteries in the camera periodically. Netvue says that their battery lasts up to 6 months, but this will vary depending on how many birds visit your bird feeding station. But they also have the option to buy a small solar panel, which continuously charges the battery for you (HIGHLY RECOMMENDED).
- Learn more about the Netvue Birdfy Hummingbird Feeder Camera HERE! (Use Coupon Code BWHQ850 to save 10%!)
7 Tips When Choosing a Hummingbird Feeder
Tip #1: Dish or bottle feeder?
There are two basic types of hummingbird feeders; the dish and the bottle.
Dish feeders (also called saucer feeders) hold the nectar in the saucer below the feeding ports. It’s a straightforward design, pour the nectar into the dish, put the top back on, and let the hummingbirds start drinking!
The main advantages to the dish feeders are they are EASY to clean and tend not to have as many leaking problems.
Bottle feeders (also called tube or vacuum feeders) resemble a bottle (hence the name!). The nectar is held above the feeding ports and lowers as more of the nectar is eaten.
Bottle feeders tend to look more stylish, in my opinion, but are much harder to clean. You usually need some brushes to get up into the bottle. Also, bottle feeders have a higher tendency to leak.
Every hummingbird enthusiast has their preference. My recommendation is to try and test both styles of nectar feeder to see what you and the hummingbirds like best. Personally, I love dish feeders because they are easier to clean!
Tip #2: Give your hummingbirds a place to rest with perches!
It’s not a requirement, but hummingbirds seem to enjoy having a place to sit and eat.
Tip #3: Make sure it’s constructed well.
Sturdy plastic and glass stand up the best. You don’t want it to break the first time it falls!
Tip #4: Does it have an ant moat?
Hummingbird feeders that leak typically have the biggest problem with ants. This is because ants are naturally attracted to the sugar in the nectar. As a result, many feeders come equipped with ant moats to deter these insects.
If you find a hummingbird feeder that you like, but it doesn’t have an ant moat, have no fear! Ant guards and traps can be purchased separately. (see links below)
Tip #5. Pay attention to the nectar capacity.
It is crucial to consider how much nectar your feeder holds. Many backyard bird watchers want to buy a feeder with a massive 32 oz reservoir.
BIGGER IS NOT ALWAYS BETTER.
Here’s the problem: Nectar spoils typically within a week or two, depending on your local weather.
So if only a few hummingbirds visit your feeder, you will be wasting most of your nectar.
Instead of having one large hummingbird feeder, I recommend getting a few smaller ones and spacing them out in your yard. This also prevents a bully hummingbird from taking over and not allowing any other birds to feed.
Tip #6. Red works best!
Yes, it’s true. Hummingbirds are attracted to the color red and other bright colors. Most flowers are bright, and hummingbirds have evolved to locate their preferred food sources as easily and quickly as possible.
So make sure your hummingbird feeder predominantly displays the color red (or another bright color). Luckily, most hummingbird feeders you find will already feature bright colors.
But it’s not recommended to dye your nectar with red food coloring. First, the reddening chemicals could prove detrimental to your hummers. Second, nectar is a clear liquid in the first place, so coloring is not necessary.
Tip #7. Set up multiple feeders around your yard.
Don’t let the small size of a hummingbird fool you. They can be very territorial and aggressive towards each other! It’s common for a dominant hummingbird to protect a feeder and prevent other hummers from visiting.
Instead of just hanging one feeder, I recommend buying a few and hanging them in different locations. A bully hummingbird can’t protect them all at once! And this allows you to test a few different feeder styles to see what you prefer and which works best.
Before you leave…
As someone who goes into anaphalactic shock when styung by yellow jackets I can assure you that having tried almost a dozen hummingbird feeders the dish feeder used in you comparison is far and away the best for keeping yellowjackets at bay
Enjoyed watching the clips. Number 11 was my favorite. The close up was good enough to see a lot of movement as she ate. Thanks for your web site. It’s enjoyable and informative. I think I’ll be getting a dish feeder in the near future.
Humming bird feeders ; Once bird drinks some liquid it will stop moving water down to fix this tilt feeder until it starts bubbeling then stop tilt when it stops bubbeling or it will start leaking. To fix feeder design it to hang at a tilt or build the base tilted just enough to cause it to keep feeding water down. ALSO Warn people to only use PURE CANE sugar because any other sweetners cause sores on tongue bird can not retract tongue and will die and never feed honey in water. Please write Domino Sugar tell them to put warning on bags so people know what sugar to buy .
My favorite hummer feeder is the First Nature 32 oz, I like the way it cleans, it doesn’t leak, and i live in CA and regularly see the Orioles, and they can also feed from the ports on this feeder. I see three kinds of hummers regularly. The Ruby throat, the Costa, and the Rufus. My feeder empties in a day and a half, so the larger size is perfect.
It shouldn’t matter where you hang the feeder. I have window feeders on a south window that can get quite warm in the heat of summer. The one thing I would emphasize though is, if you’re in a hot weather stretch don’t go more than four or five days without replacing the nectar. Sugar can develop bacteria during hot weather. By hot I would say 85 degrees and up. Below 85 degrees you should be able to go 5 to 6 days without a change (I rarely go that long without a refresh). Just keep an eye on the nectar and if it starts looking cloudy, change it right away.
Also, be patient. When I hung my first feeders I didn’t see a hummer for at least a month and a half. Just don’t forget to keep changing the nectar to keep it fresh. It may seem like a hopeless waste of time but the end reward of attraction is worth it. Then again, you may get hummers the first day.
The feeder recommended in this article is great for preventing wasps and bees from getting in. The First Nature bottle feeder has little slits instead of round holes for the hummers to drink out of and the wasps cannot fit through the slits. It is heavy-duty plastic with a wide mouth on the jar for easy cleaning. I’ve had mine for 3 years now and it is still in great shape. Hope this helps!
I’ve been feeding hummers for years, both in CA and in TX. I’ve used all types of feeders and will only use the saucer type. The bottle type are just too difficult to clean and a pain to fill and hang. I also will only use the perfectly round saucer types, not the hexagonal ones that are similar to the round ones. Again, the hexagonal ones are too difficult to get the top back on one the bottom is filled. These are the one I get and they come in packs of 2:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08G129XMG?psc=1&ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_product_details
I also use the stand alone ant guards instead of the built in ant moats; much more effective and they last forever.
I live in Florida and have found once the temp rises above 90 the hummingbird feeders get mold and mildew. If you want to have them up in hot weather you will constantly have to change the liquid and scrub it out. Sadly I quit using them and have gone to plantings that attract them. We have planted the width of the backyard with Firebush and have the same in the front yard.
I’m wanting to hang hummingbird feeders but have a couple of questions. Our region can get extremely hot in the summer, so do I hand the feeders in the shade? I planned to use a shepherds hook 5 to 6 foot high. Do I place it near flowers? Trees? North side of the yard or where? I have limited shade on the south and west sides of my yard.
Our hottest time of the day can begin as early as 10/11 am and not cool off until around after sunset- in the past we usually get a couple weeks of this heat at the end of May and then again at the end of June/early July for spurts of 2 to 3 weeks at a time through August/early September. However last summer we were well over 100 degrees from the end of June through August. We do have hummingbirds in our area, I just don’t know too much about their habitat and needs.
I would also appreciate any titles of books or articles I can read to educate myself and avoid too many mistakes.
Reading the comments about feeders was very helpful as was the tip about a “feeder” for the wasp. Thank you for any suggestions and wisdom.
I love my hummingbird feeder. So easy to clean and no spills. It’s called the Pagoda High Perch and I bought it from Wild Birds Unlimited. I realize I need to buy another one because one bullying hummingbird is hogging it!
Your thought process is correct. However, the nectar, a 20% sugar solution, is such an aggressive growth media, the Natural UV anti microbial action isn’t as effective.
Problem with hummingbird feeders with the ports on top, when you get a heavy rain the water will get into the syrup and dilute it.
Also those that you stick on the windows, suction cups won’t hold up long it the sun is shining on the window.
Hummingbirds may be more apt to hitting the windows while fighting over the feeders.
Elsa, what brand / size do you use? Everything I look at on Amazon has negative comments turning me away
I have a question. I am pleased with the feeders I have since in general, they don’t leak. Well, that is unless the wind blows which is most of the time in the area I live in. Now, sometimes, I can go into town and there won’t be any wind at all. lol
Anyway, the wind makes the feeders swing wildly causing the food to range from a dripping to pouring out. Unfortunately, buying a more expensive glass feeder and hope the wind wouldn’t swing it is out of the question for me.
I have the feeders hung on hooks from the wooden rafters under the eves of the patio. I don’t know if there’s anything that would work to stop this kind of leaking.
try buying a dish style feeder. Leaking is much less common these types.
Over the years, I have watched the Ruby Throats go in my area go from 12 a year to 2 last year. I watched as one of my landlord and a neighbor destroyed their habitat and nests and stepped on their eggs before any of us could save them. I put my feeders out late because I was sure they wouldn’t return.
Then one day, a hummingbird showed up but it wasn’t a Ruby. It was a single Black Chined, never seen here in centuries. Then a second one showed up for just two days. I can’t find a picture of it. It may be a hybrid. A couple of days later there were two black chins, a Ruby nd one other.
Unfortunately, I have been in and out of the hospital so my feeders haven’t been refilled so I don’t know what is around at the moment. But my point is, don’t give up. Ya don’t have to fill your feeders all the way up. I have two feeders and I cut the recipe into 1/4 so it wouldn’t go bad if there wasn’t very many and split it between the two. So all I used was 1/4 cup of sugar to 1 cup of water. That’s not a lot to give it a try.
I am sad to see the reduction of Rubies. We got a report a few years ago their population was reducing so we wer to watch for nests before we cut bush and branches down.
Put. Feeder with 50/50 water/sugar away from the other feeders. The wasps and nets will go to the higher concentration and leave the other feeders alone.
I have a hummer feeder & a seed feeder hanging from a branch of a Sitka spruce. It’s fantastic, no mess as everything falls into the grass & disappears! I threw a line over the branch, attached one end to feeder, the other to tree trunk so I could raise & lower the feeders as we have deer that like seed.
I buy feeders at the Dollar Tree every year. My Hummers prefer these to the expensive ones I have tried. I have a few I’ve used for years and t hey are still going strong!.
We have a terrible time with wasps actually getting inside the feeder holes. Do you know of anything that would stop this?
Have you seen the College Logo Hummingbird feeders at PetStoreNMore.com ? Wow, really cool
I bought a hummingbird feeder called Lil sweety hummingbird feeder. I bought it at our San Diego County Fair a couple of years ago. It has taken a long time for the hummingbirds to use it but it could be my fault since I didn’t monitor it regularly. It is easy to clean and has a water compartment in the center where the hook is located to keep ants out. I also had smaller tubes I bought from a nursery which attracted hummingbirds regularly. I am going to be more diligent and change the food and clean the feeders on a weekly basis. I should get more visitors. I now want to identify the hummers that come by.
There are also window-mount feeders that attach with suction cups. No nails or screws.
Stick a pole in the ground, or use a weighted base.
Could try “Command” strips. “Command™ Outdoor Products can also be used on smooth, sealed and finished surfaces including vinyl siding and fences, doors, windows, decks, gutters and trim. The Outdoor Product line is not recommended for use on rough surfaces, such as cement board, brick or rough-sawn wood.”
Provided they would be left alone, nobody pulling on the removal tab.
My feeder sits on top of a metal stake in a plant pot. It is a saucer/bowl feeder with a screw on top where they sit to drink.
hi Charlene! I just found this site, so awesome! I live in an extremely hot area (100-degrees + 3-4 months of every year) and every single feeder I have leaked or burst. Until I found the saucer style feeders with the nectar on the bottom. The Aspects feeder (Scott’s number one choice) is a bit more expensive than knock-offs, and is absolutely the only feeder I’ll ever buy again. The “drip down” feeders can be gorgeous but they ALL eventually leak out here in the desert. Good luck!
YHHAFSFW Hummingbird Feeder,20 Ounce Glass
FYI: Amazon does not have them anymore available.
I am interested on buying a couple of them and so are other friends.
CAREFUL: There are scammers who say they have it, such as: YWERMI.COM, and some others, which should be reported to Consumers Affairs and other governmental authorities.
Any LEGIT information of a supplier/vendor will be much appreciated.
I have a Rose of Sharon/Hibiscus bush (tall as a small tree). The hummers love it! They drink from the flowers and sit in the branches. It also keeps the bees away from the feedsrs. I only have a problem with yellow jackets. I put vaseline on the bottom of the feeder and – no more yellow jackets!
I’m on the 10th floor of our condo and am amazed at the number of hummers that find my 4 feeders. We have planter boxes and I stuck shepherd’s crooks in them. I clean the bottles and change the nectar every 4 days to keep it fresh. Simple syrup solution: boil 4 cups of water, then add 1 cup of sugar and stir to dissolve.
What a joy seeing those little hummers darting about.
I have used glass bottles, inverted with feeders screwed to the neck. VERY durable and never leaky! I love these bottles so well, I have bought 22 already!
Yes! Just make sure you also get an ant moat above the feeder. Those pesky ants will invade it. Or, put flour on top of the bottle, they don’t like anything sticking to their feet! I have presently about 18 feeders going strong right now❤️ My feeders are red glass bottles, which I didn’t see mentioned here; they are simply the best!
Absolutely! Or, you can get a “shepherd’s crook” from a home improvement store and hang feeder(s) on it.
Yes! Most likely. I live on the 8th floor in a dense, urban area and I’ve been getting visitors to my window feeder. We even see hummingbirds in our roof garden which is 14 stories up. This is my first time having a feeder and I am loving it. Have fun!
I’ve pretty much given up on hummingbirds in my yard. So sick of experimenting and wasting liquid every year, buying new feeders, all for maybe one bug bird to show up and disappear for the summer. I’ve never had luck with them.
I have had the Natures Way feeders (first one) for years. My oldest I’ve had for at least seven. Yes they are potentially breakable if you aren’t careful, but the upside is that the glass is easy to clean and I prefer glass to plastics anyway. Another thing is that Nature’s Way will sell replacement gaskets and flower ports for replacements if they are needed. Plus they don’t leak with the exception that if you fill them too high the nectar can squirt out a little when you put the lid on. Otherwise I have never had a problem. As for hummingbirds…they are favorite with them, I have had many kids of feeders and those are the ones with the most activity in my yard.
I rent and aren’t allowed to put hooks or nails into the overhangs of my house. I have one right outside my patio window that another tenant put in. Can feeders be hung from tree limbs?
Yeah! That should work fine. Maybe try using fishing string to hang so nothing large can climb down to drink the nectar.
Under “Best Unique Feeders”
“Unfortunately, many stylish hummingbirds look GREAT but are not functional. They either leak, break easily, or hummingbirds never end up using them.”
How do I avoid these dysfunctional hummingbirds at my feeder? I mean really, who wants fragile, leaky hummingbirds hanging around? You know, the kind other hummingbirds wouldn’t want to use.
Thanks for the tip. They look awesome.
Thank you for this information you provided. We find it the most logical help. Now we can buy our feeder.
Will the feeder still attract hummingbirds if my patio is on the fifth floor of an high rise. It’s the only high rise in an otherwise green and wooded surrounding. Secondly, need to keep them in a patio , hence checking for the right options. Please help.
I’m wondering why humming bird feeder part that contain the sugar water aren’t made of clear plastic. When exposed to the sun, the UV rays should kill most microbes in the sugar solution. This method has been promoted by the UN in third world countries without clean safe water. They put the dirty water that they have and put them in the clear plastic jugs. After 6 hrs of so in the sun, the water is clear of microbes and safe to drink. I understand the need for bright colors to attract the birds, but they can be put around and on the bottom of the feeder to minimize the blockage of sun rays.
The Healthy Hummingbird Feeder from Amazon for $10. I have no affiliation with the company or anything else. I’ve used it and it’s one of the best I’ve ever used. It’s easy to clean because it’s a dish feeder. Unlike bottle feeders, it doesn’t leak, and it only holds 4 ounces. The screw on lid gives it a secure seal. Another one I like is the Aspects HummZinger Humm Blossom. You can find it at Amazon, too. Aspects makes bee guards for that feeder, and I use them. That feeder holds 4 ounces, too. These are super easy to clean. In hot weather, you need to change a feeder every two days. So using less nectar means less waste. You may need an S hook for the HummBlossom because the hook for hanging it is tiny. My beef with bottle feeders is that they expand and contract in hot weather. This is especially true of plastic feeders. Unless you’re able to get a tight vacuum seal on a bottle feeder, it will always leak.
The shipping price is more than the actual product
I want a affordable humming bird feeder
But unable to find it
I have the $1.00 plastic hummingbird feeder from the dollar store. Replace only when the red area fades in the hot SoCal sun. Hummingbirds enjoy feeder every day of the year rain or shine.
I have lots and lots of flowers on the porch during the summer. Some attract the birds while others do not. Most of the feeders I’ve tried usually end up just a mess to later need cleaning, but flowers don’t need regular cleaning, just water. We get a lot of hummingbirds here and sometimes while I’m on the porch they’ll fly close to me making me mistakenly believe giant bees have invaded. I have a builtin fear of stinging insects since I one stepped on a hive as a kid and got stung all over my body. That loud buzzing sound always makes me jump.
I’ve never done that, but the blurb for a window-mounted hummer feeder cautioned that you should immediately move the feeder elsewhere if the birds start crashing into the window (which breaks their bills and necks!), or else try putting up decals so it doesn’t look like a fly-through opportunity. I decided not get one, because I have several old plant-hanger hooks up on the privacy fence that I can use, and I can see visitors from inside the house. But I guess it’s doable, if you’re very cautious.
I purchased a 4 oz plum-colored “Humm Blossom” feeder last fall because we had so much rain that my salvia didn’t bloom (too little sun). My hummers depend on the salvia in late Sept to Oct before they migrate out of state (I live in VA). I wanted something small so I wasn’t tossing nectar with every cleaning (I usually have only one bird but this year I have had a male and two females). The birds found it right away and they have no problem getting at the nectar. It has a perch, 3 ports and a center brass hook. I love it. I used it all summer this year. It doesn’t leak and is near empty by the time I clean it so I have very little waste. I have had a few very small ants find it but when they do, I shift where I hang it. My humming birds hand out in my crepe myrtle trees so I shift it around in those. I will probably buy another because the dominant female is aggressive! They divided my yard in two but I have only one feeder. As for flowers that they like, I highly recommend planting pineapple sage and allowing it to bloom. It has bright red trumpet-shaped flowers and they LOVE it. It has the added benefit of not blooming until late Sept-early October when there is little else available.
I haven’t heard back so am leaving my query here. Can you place a hummingbird feeder near a window or is this dangerous for the birds.
I will be ordering from hummingbirdfeeder.com for sure
Hi – thanks for your info – I will be ordering from your link for sure. It is so difficult to find a feeder that doesn’t leak
I can’t believe “The Hummingbird Feeder” (thehummingbirdfeeder.com) isn’t even mentioned! Especially as it “SHOULD BE LISTED AS #1. The only Hummingbird feeder I know of 1.) Made in the USA 2.) Comes with a “no questions asked LIFETIME GUARANTY – REPLACEMENT. How could possibly have missed this fine product???
I have the dish one from this photo. Works great. i previously used bottle style but they just gave me too many problems. I know when I started I was worried that the hummers couldn’t get the nectar at the bottom of the dish. They totally can
Awe….I vaguely remember that happening a long time ago, too….I must have been trying a different feeder.
I get growing problems with ants and wasps during certain seasons, so I taper the hummingbirds’ dependence on their feeder this time of year [especially since there is plenty else for them to choose from with “Bee Balm” and “Hot Lips” Salvia, etc. that they love]. Also, our summers can get hot and it is work keeping up with cleaning/re-supplying of sugar water [as you stated, extremely important b/c the black mold that quickly develops can be deadly to them]. But, if you are going to feed hummingbirds through the summer, I liked the suggestion of having a few dispersed in the yard.
I have year round hummingbirds.When winter temperatures drop more than normal [to freezing] here in Oregon, I do my best to keep up with changing out the hummingbird feeders, as the sugar water freezes up, because the hummingbirds’ lives are depending on a food source & a little shelter/place to rest! For that purpose, I love these old, traditional, thick glassed, cheaper ones; but, made with the wide mouth [for easier filling]. I, too, see it helpful for the hummers to have a place to rest [especially those windy cold winter days] and they seem to love sucking the nectar from the little flowers with the cage like centers.The only thing I find myself annoyed with is the little centers sometimes fall out & get lost and I don’t ever see replacements offered for sale. I don’t have a picture handy, but it is a commonly sold feeder.
Also: spreading the word for all hummingbird fans: I almost purchased preying mantis [? – egg doesn’t seem the right term, but can’t think of what you call it] from Lowe’s or Home Depot. Had I purchased it, in about two weeks I would have released something like 150 preying mantis [that is the part that concerned me without researching further and thank goodness I did!]. I knew that preying mantis also ate some “good” bugs, but I never knew that they preyed on hummingbirds. In fact, that is one of the hummingbirds’ main predators! I know how quick they strike. After reading that, I came across a picture of one sitting on one edge of the feeder as the hummingbird was feeding….horrifying thought! I think I’ll stick with annual nematode spraying and ladybugs!
Find a Wild Birds Unlimited in your area. They have electric heaters that attach to the bottom of the birdfeeder to keep it warm in winter.
We have a glass-blown, beautiful feeder that the hummingbirds love. Unfortunately two of the glass blossom stems have broken due to my clumsiness!. Is it possible to buy just the glass stems as I don’t want to replace the whole feeder? And, if so, where?
We have a little guy that stays all winter.. and it gets cold here.. we have been wrapping feeder in old heat producing Christmas lights but can’t find replacement bulbs.. hear there is a feeder with a built in heater.. are you familiar with this feeder?
First nature is my favorite, very inexpensive and it works great.
Here is a picture of one.
You can find these feeders on Ebay..Just type in Woodstream Hummingbird feeders.
The Hummzinger HighView is a GREAT feeder. It is attractive, durable and easy to clean. The high quality red plastic remains bright year after year, the clear plastic remains crystal clear year after year and the ant moat also serves as a water source for small birds like Chickadees. NEVER put anything other than fresh water in the moat! When refilling the feeders, it is very easy to check for white/black mold. A Q-tip can be useful for cleaning the ports because sometimes mold can form there during very hot weather. If you have a problem with bees getting into the ports, Aspects also makes disposable inserts for the nectar ports that solve this issue. I use over 20 of these feeders at various locations, and I am always happy when I see the little guys resting on the high perch. It means that they are quite comfortable and are not wasting precious energy hovering while they feed. HOWEVER, I DO OCCASIONALLY HAVE A HUMMINGBIRD THAT POKES AROUND AT THE CLEAR PLASTIC ON THE BOTTOM OF THE FEEDER IN AN ATTEMPT TO GET AT THE NECTAR, NOT REALIZING THAT THE PORTS ARE ON TOP. THIS IS FRUSTRATING AND EACH TIME THIS HAPPENS THE BIRD GIVES UP AFTER A FEW SECONDS AND NEVER RETURNS. SO, I TOO, AM SEARCHING A BOTTLE TYPE FEEDER THAT HAS A FAKE FLOWER AT THE BASE. DOES ANYONE KNOW OF SUCH A FEEDER? I THINK THAT THOSE HUMMINGBIRDS THAT CAN’T FIGURE OUT THE HUMMZINGER WOULD HAVE BETTER LUCK WITH THIS TYPE, AT LEAST UNTIL THEY COULD OBSERVE OTHERS FEEDING QUITE COMFORTABLY ON THE HIGHVIEW!
the simpler the better Have had hummies for years they prefer the simple plastic bottle from Wal Mart Enjoy
I have a feeder with a perch that is greatly used. One problem. There is one hummer that goes to the bottom of the feeder and tries to feed from the rim. Is there a feeder that will solve this problem. She never gets fed and I watch her go to the neighbor and she does the same thing.
I’m not aware of such a feeder, but there are hundreds of different options so there may be something that caters toward this specific hummer!
Standing cypress is the best flower for hummingbirds in ever had, liatris bulbs second. I live in colorado. Along front range.
That’s great to hear! I am unfamiliar with both of those, living in Ohio. 🙂 Thanks for sharing.
Do you have a picture by chance? And just curious, do you have a problem with woodpeckers at your current hummingbird feeders?
I do like it when you mentioned the two types of hummingbird feeders, but what interested me was the dish feeder since it is a good choice due to the idea that it is easy to clean and tends to have no leak problems. It might be good to consider this since if it does not leak, then I am sure that bees won’t come to it. I want to make sure that the birdfeeder I will get will only feed the birds. Anyway, thank you for the info.
My favorite hummingbird feeders are typically a dish style, for exactly those two reasons. They are easier to clean and don’t leak. You’re welcome! Thank you for commenting. 🙂