Bees and wasps at hummingbird feeders are a common issue for backyard bird enthusiasts. These insects are drawn to the feeder for the same reason the birds are: a readily available source of simple sugar water. Hummingbird nectar, typically a 1:4 sugar-to-water solution, provides a high-calorie reward that is irresistible to foraging insects, especially when natural flower nectar sources diminish. Although hummingbirds are attracted to the color red, the sugar itself acts as a strong attractant, leading to competition at the feeding ports. Successfully deterring these insects relies on physical modifications, strategic placement, and careful nectar preparation.
Adjustments to Feeder Design
Selecting or modifying a feeder that physically prevents insects from reaching the sugar solution is an immediate and effective step. This is often accomplished by using bee guards, which are small plastic grids or caps that fit over the feeding ports. The design allows the hummingbird’s long, slender bill to access the nectar reservoir, while blocking the shorter mouths of bees and wasps.
Choosing a feeder that lacks yellow components is a simple yet powerful deterrent. Bees and wasps are visually drawn to the color yellow, which they associate with nectar-rich flowers. Hummingbirds are primarily attracted to red. Any yellow plastic flowers or decorative elements on the feeder should be removed or painted over with a non-toxic red paint to reduce the visual beacon for insects.
The risk of leakage must also be addressed, as even a small drip of nectar on the feeder exterior is a potent attractant. Saucer-style feeders, which hold the nectar in a shallow dish, tend to be more resistant to leakage than inverted bottle feeders. These feeders naturally keep the nectar level low and further away from the port opening, making it difficult for insects to reach. Regularly check the feeder for cracks or loose seals, since exposed, sticky residue on the outside acts as a clear signal for insects to investigate.
Strategic Location and Positioning
The environment in which the feeder is hung significantly influences insect activity. Placing the feeder in a shaded area is beneficial, as this keeps the nectar cooler and slows down fermentation. Bees and wasps are generally less active in shaded locations, preferring to forage in direct sunlight. This makes the shaded feeder less appealing to them.
The location should also be chosen away from natural insect feeding grounds. Avoid hanging feeders directly near flowering plants that attract large numbers of bees and wasps, such as ornamental shrubs or fruit trees. This separation helps prevent insects from immediately locating the sugar source after finishing their natural foraging.
If insects have established a routine at a specific feeder location, a short-distance relocation can be an effective strategy. Moving the feeder just four to six feet away is enough to confuse insects, who rely on a fixed location memory to return to a food source. Hummingbirds possess excellent spatial memory and vision, allowing them to quickly adjust to the new position and feed without competition.
Nectar Recipe and Maintenance
The standard nectar recipe is one part refined white sugar to four parts water, which mimics the concentration found in natural flower nectars. If bees and wasps persist, a slight dilution can make the solution less desirable to them. Changing the ratio to five parts water to one part sugar reduces the sweetness enough to deter insects, who crave higher concentrations, while still providing adequate energy for the hummingbirds.
Feeder hygiene is a major factor in preventing insect swarms, as residual sugar is a powerful lure. The feeder must be cleaned frequently, ideally every few days, to remove sticky buildup or mold inside and out. After refilling, ensure the exterior is completely dry, wiping away any drops or spills that occurred during the process.
A dry exterior is particularly important because any sticky film or dried nectar provides an immediate food source for insects. This residue attracts foraging individuals and can lead them to discover the feeding ports. Consistent cleaning prevents this initial attraction, making the feeder a less reliable target for pests.