A tube bird feeder is one of the best tools to use to attract the hummingbird to you. Most people have seen the traditional type of water/sugar mixture in commercial outlets that say that they will help you to attract these birds. Many of them have design flaws though. Before you invest any time or money into bird feeders for hummingbirds, know what to expect and how to purchase those feeders.
Bottle and saucer type of bird feeders often feature bright red colors on them. The idea is that the birdfeeder’s color will help to attract the hummingbird. While it is true that these brighter colored feeders will attract them, the liquid you place within them should be clear. When a hummingbird visits a flower, the nectar from the flowers is clear, not red. Further, some studies suggest that red food coloring could be harmful to hummingbirds.
You should also not use any type of honey when making hummingbird food. Using honey will promote bacteria and fungus growth. Rather, use just ΒΌ cup of sugar for every cup of water you create.
When selecting a bird feeder for the hummingbird, choose a tube bird feeder. This feeder design is optimal for feeder cleanliness. You can choose glass or plastic versions and some are designed with red coloring to make them a bit more attractive to the hummingbird. Do look for a tube bird feeder that has a screen or other device on it that keeps insects out of the solution.
More Tips For Success
To attract more hummingbirds to your backyard, try these tips.
- Be certain to clean the feeders regularly and change the sugar mixture every two days, this will keep bacteria from growing in the solution.
- Choose a smaller tube bird feeder rather than a larger one. These smaller varieties will be emptied by birds every day or so, making the perfect opportunity for you to clean them out.
- Always ensure that the tube bird feeder is wasp and bee proof. If you decide not to have a bee proof feeder, you will attract more bees and wasps than birds.
- If interested in attracting other species to visit, choose a feeder that has a larger perch. These bird feeders will attract woodpeckers, orioles and other birds to them, too.
Hummingbirds are a joy to watch and so it is important to use the proper components to attract them to your yard. However, a tube bird feeder with the proper elements will make the process of attracting hummers simple.