Hummingbirds are fascinating creatures that bring joy to backyard bird watchers. With their jewel-toned plumage, lightning-fast wings, and hovering flight patterns, these tiny birds are a delight to observe. Hummingbirds are also voracious eaters, consuming up to twice their body weight in nectar each day to fuel their high-energy lifestyle. This raises an important question for those who want to attract hummingbirds to their yard – is it better to place hummingbird feeders in direct sunlight or dappled shade?
Quick answer
Most experts recommend placing hummingbird feeders in light to moderate shade rather than direct sunlight. This helps prevent the sugary nectar from fermenting or becoming too hot. Dappled sunlight filtering through trees is an ideal location. However, hummingbirds are adaptable and will visit feeders in sunny spots if that is the only option available.
Do hummingbirds prefer sun or shade?
When given a choice, hummingbirds generally prefer to visit feeders that are hung in lightly shaded spots rather than direct sun. There are several reasons for this preference:
- Shade prevents the nectar from getting too hot. Hummingbirds have a high body temperature around 107°F and cannot tolerate very hot nectar.
- In extreme heat, the sugar concentration of nectar can rise to dangerous levels as water evaporates.
- Nectar in the shade lasts longer before spoiling or fermenting.
- Bright sun can fade some feeders over time, making them less attractive.
- Direct sun encourages bees and wasps, making aggressive species more likely.
- Shade provides protection from predators and a place to rest.
Prolonged exposure to sunlight can heat the nectar inside a feeder to temperatures that may burn or harm hummingbirds. The optimal nectar temperature for hummingbirds is between 60-80°F. In a hot climate, nectar left in direct sun can exceed temps of 130°F.
Why do hummingbirds avoid very hot nectar?
Hummingbirds have an extremely fast metabolism and normal body temperature around 107°F when active. They consume a tremendous amount of energy and are constantly on the verge of starvation. When hummingbirds drink nectar that is too hot, it can literally cook their crop and kill them. Even temps in the 90-100°F range can harm them over time.
Hummingbirds lack the ability to sweat or pant to dissipate heat like other animals. Their metabolism runs so high that they can’t afford to spare any moisture. Overheating can quickly lead to death for a hummingbird.
Very hot nectar also increases their need for water. Hummers get most of their water from nectar and the sugar concentration goes up as water evaporates in heat, which can lead to dehydration.
High temperatures change the chemical composition of nectar, creating hydroxymethylfurfural, which is toxic in large doses. Hot nectar can also grow mold and ferment faster, making it dangerous for hummingbirds to consume.
Do hummingbirds drink from feeders in direct sun?
While hummingbirds prefer shaded nectar sources, they will still visit feeders placed in direct sunlight, especially if no other options are available. During cool weather or times when food is scarce, hummingbirds may regularly feed at sunny feeders.
In very hot conditions, hummingbirds will alter their behavior to minimize overheating. They will come to sunny feeders very early in the morning when temperatures are cooler. As the day heats up, they will switch to shaded feeders or natural blossoms. Then return to the sunny feeders in the late afternoon when things start to cool down again.
Hummingbirds also adjust their feeding strategy at hot feeders. They will come in quick bursts, drinking just a sip or two of boiling hot nectar before departing. This allows them to get calories without overheating their tiny bodies. They may pant or gular flutter after a hot nectar meal to dissipate heat.
While hummingbirds don’t prefer sweltering nectar, they are capable of adapting their behavior and still extracting needed energy from sunny feeders when necessary.
Tips for sunny feeders
If placing your feeder in full sun is unavoidable, here are some tips to reduce problems:
- Use a shade hood or awning to block direct sun and keep feeder contents cool.
- Choose a feeder made of ceramic, glass, or metal which won’t overheat as fast as plastic.
- Use a nectar solution with extra water to prevent dangerous sugar concentrations.
- Change nectar at least once a day to prevent spoilage and fermentation.
- Clean feeders thoroughly every few days to prevent mold.
- Consider moving feeders to a new location in extreme heat waves.
What kinds of locations do hummingbirds prefer?
Hummingbirds are most comfortable drinking nectar from feeders that are hung in the following types of locations:
- Light to moderate shade – Dappled sunlight filtering through trees is ideal as it blocks direct sun but allows plenty of light.
- Near trees/shrubs – Prefer sheltered spots with protection from predators and wind. The branches provide perches to rest.
- Near gardens – Allow easy access to nectar-rich flowers to supplement diet.
- Porches or overhangs – Provide shade while still keeping feeders accessible.
- Out of major wind – Wind makes hovering difficult for hummingbirds, so spots with good cover are best.
Aim for locations that balance easy access, protection from elements, quick escape from predators, and shade from the hottest midday sun. Hummingbirds appreciate multiple feeders in both sun and shade to give them options at different times of day.
Where should you never place a hummingbird feeder?
There are certain locations you’ll want to avoid when placing hummingbird feeders:
- Areas with direct hot sun during most of the day
- Exposed spots with no trees/shrubs nearby to provide cover
- Next to busy areas like walkways where feeders are prone to getting bumped
- Spaces that allow bees or wasps easy access, like near flower beds
- Right next to bright lights that might disorient hummingbirds at night
- High traffic zones where pets like cats can stalk the feeders
Avoid putting feeders in unstable locations or anywhere that gets direct sun most of the day for the safety and comfort of hummingbirds.
Will hummingbirds abandon a feeder in direct sun?
Hummingbirds won’t completely abandon a nectar feeder in direct sun in most cases. While they may show a strong preference for shaded feeders, hummingbirds also don’t want to miss an opportunity to refuel.
If a sunny feeder is the only readily available nectar source, hummingbirds will still visit it regularly to feed. They typically modify their behavior to use the hot feeder during the coolest parts of the day – early morning, late afternoon, and evening.
However, given the choice between a shaded feeder and one in full sun, hummingbirds will make far more frequent trips to the shaded option during daylight hours when temperatures are high.
To encourage more daytime use, consider moving excessively hot feeders or supplementing very sunny spots with extra feeders hung in shade. Providing a mix of sun and shade feeders is ideal for giving hummingbirds options throughout the day.
Do hummingbirds prefer morning sun or afternoon sun?
Hummingbirds are most active in the early morning hours just after sunrise when temperatures are coolest. For this reason, they tend to favor feeders that receive morning sun over those getting intense afternoon light.
In the early morning, the warming rays of sunlight help raise a hummingbird’s body temperature so they can become active and alert. Mornings are critical feeding times and hummingbirds will gravitate toward any feeders lit by first light.
As the day progresses, hummingbirds shift their preference toward shaded feeders to avoid overheating. By late afternoon, the sun angles are lower and sun-dappled feeders are used again during the evening cool down before night falls.
Given the choice, consider placing at least some feeders where they will receive gentle morning sunlight to attract early risers. Just be sure to also provide shade options for midday relief from the peak heat.
What are the best feeder locations by season?
The ideal hummingbird feeder placement shifts somewhat based on the season as weather conditions change:
- Spring – Morning sun to provide warmth as hummingbirds return from migration.
- Summer – Mostly shade with indirect sunlight to prevent overheating.
- Fall – Areas that catch the midday sun to help migrating birds store fuel.
- Winter – Sheltered spots out of wind/snow but can handle some sun for warmth.
Aim for a balance of sun and shade feeders year-round. Pay attention to how hummingbird activity changes at different locations and move feeders as needed to match their preferences.
Hummingbird feeder location tips by season:
Spring:
- Face feeders east to catch early morning sun
- Gradually transition feeders to more shade as days warm
- Keep feeders clear of leafy foliage so hummers can spot them easily
Summer:
- Move most feeders to shade by early summer
- Leave at least one in morning sun for early risers
- Use a shade hood or awning if no shade is available
Fall:
- Place some feeders back in sunnier spots
- Hummers need to pack on fat before migrating south
- Keep water sources heated as temps drop overnight
Winter:
- Insulate nectar with wool socks to keep from freezing
- Pick protected spots away from wind and snow
- Allow some midday sun to provide warmth on cold days
Do hummingbirds prefer red feeders?
Surprisingly, the color of a feeder doesn’t seem to matter much to hummingbirds as long as the location meets their needs. Extensive research has shown hummingbirds are attracted to bright colors in the red spectrum, which led to the popularity of vivid red feeders.
However, multiple studies have found that feeder color makes no difference in hummingbird visitation. Hummers will readily use feeders in red, orange, yellow, blue, or plain glass.
Instead of color, hummingbirds are more influenced by convenient placement in optimal habitat, fresh nectar, and minimal competition from other birds. As long as you follow these guidelines, hummingbirds will visit feeders of any color.
With that said, applying some red paint or ornaments to an existing feeder can make it more visible to hummingbirds from a distance. Just don’t assume solid red is a must – they will happily use any feeder style that suits their needs.
Tips on feeder color
- Add red accents to help attract hummingbirds from afar
- Select a color that matches your garden scheme and decor
- Avoid bees by using less bee-appealing colors like blue or green
- Prevent fading by choosing glass, ceramic, or metal over plastic
- Clean often as soiled feeders are less attractive regardless of color
Do hummingbirds prefer elevated feeders?
Hummingbirds tend to prefer feeders that are hung higher up rather than down low to the ground, for a few reasons:
- Elevated feeders are more visible for advertising location to hummers.
- Higher spots make hummers less vulnerable to predators.
- Ascending to feeders mimics natural feeding on raised flowers.
- Higher feeders have better air circulation and stay fresher.
- Allows hummers to drop down for quick escapes if needed.
Research on calliope hummingbirds found they visited higher feeders more often when given a choice between two heights. However, don’t hang feeders so high that it makes filling and cleaning difficult.
The ideal height is 5-7 feet off the ground. Near eye-level allows you to easily observe visiting hummingbirds. Hanging multiple feeders at varying heights also provides lots of options.
Tips on height
- Use an adjustable hanging hook to easily change height
- Hang sturdy tree branches or posts to hang several feeders
- Elevate feeders with poles, trellises, clothesline, or other accessories
- Start low early in the season and gradually move feeders higher
Conclusion
In summary, most hummingbirds prefer feeders located in bright filtered shade near protective trees and shrubs. This provides a balance of safety from predators, relief from heat, and quick access to fuel. Feeders should be elevated 5-7 feet high and positioned to catch early morning sun. Including a mix of sun and shade feeders that are moved to match seasonal needs is ideal.
While hummingbirds strongly prefer shade, they will readily adapt and visit feeders even in direct sunlight if that’s the best option available. Care should be taken to prevent overheating by changing nectar often or adding shade hoods. By considering both hummingbird behavior patterns and seasonal conditions, you can provide the feeder setup that will attract the most hummingbirds to your yard.
