Having a dedicated feeder in your yard is a brilliant way to attract beautiful hummingbirds into backyards, adding a wildlife-friendly dimension to any outdoor space. Although, given their sugary contents, it is often not just hummingbirds that they attract. The sugar water which these stunning birds love is also very attractive to other insects, and you may have to take some simple measures to get rid of ants from the feeders as the weather warms up. Ants are a nuisance because they can contaminate the nectar and prevent hummingbirds from visiting, so it’s worth learning how to fend them off before they become too much of a problem. Here, we share 6 tips to keep your feeders ant-free this year.
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Use an ant moat on your hummingbird feeder: One of the most effective ways to keep ants out is to use an ant moat. These are small dishes that contain water, creating an effective barrier that ants cannot cross. Stainless steel ant moats are particularly good at holding up against the elements, plus they are easy to clean. Zach Hutchinson, an ornithologist, recommends using moats at the top of the feeders that can be filled with water to prevent ants from reaching the nectar.
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Keep your bird feeder clean: Consistent cleaning will avoid any leftover residue from building up, which might attract ants. Consider cleaning your hummingbird feeder on a daily basis as part of your plant-watering routine. If your feeder has seen better days, consider replacing it with a new one.
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Consider regularly changing the placement of your feeder: Thinking about hummingbird feeder placement is essential. The perfect position for a feeder is a shady spot that isn’t too near to any trees or anything that ants might be able to use as a bridge onto the feeder. Consider using suspension cables, pulley systems, or hanging the feeder over a large body of water to deter ants.
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Sprinkle cinnamon or use essential oils as an ant deterrent: Cinnamon is a powerful ant deterrent and can be spread around the base of the hooks or other infrastructure used to hold your hummingbird feeders. Natural, essential oils like clove, lemongrass, or anise are also effective at deterring ants. Avoid putting the cinnamon or oils directly on your feeder.
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Hang your hummingbird feeder using fishing line: Fishing line is incredibly durable yet super thin, making it difficult for ants to hang on to. Hanging your feeder in the shade can also prevent ants from reaching it. Consider adding shade plants for hummingbirds to attract them to these areas.
- Avoid pesticides near wildlife feeders: Harsh chemicals and pesticides can harm hummingbirds and other birds in your backyard. Instead, opt for natural methods like daily cleaning and using spices or essential oils to deter ants. Strategically plant flowers that attract hummingbirds and provide perching spots for them to rest and digest their food.
By following these tips, you can create a welcoming environment for hummingbirds in your yard while keeping pesky ants at bay. Enjoy the beauty and grace of these delightful creatures without the nuisance of unwanted insects.
