The presence of hornets and wasps at a hummingbird feeder presents a common challenge, as these aggressive insects can monopolize the food source and drive away the birds. The sugary solution intended for hummingbirds is an irresistible attractant for foraging hornets, who are constantly seeking carbohydrates for energy. Successfully managing this issue requires implementing safe, non-toxic methods focused on physical deterrence and environmental control, prioritizing the safety and health of the visiting hummingbirds.
Feeder Design Adjustments
The physical construction of the feeder is the first line of defense against insect visitors. Selecting a feeder with ports that are physically inaccessible to a hornet’s shorter mouthparts is effective. Many newer models incorporate specialized “nectar guard tips” or “bee guards,” which are small barriers that allow the hummingbird’s long, needle-like bill to reach the nectar but block the insect’s access.
Color choice on the feeder is a significant factor in deterring hornets and wasps. These insects are strongly attracted to the color yellow, which they associate with available food sources. Opting for feeders that are predominantly red, or replacing any yellow decorative accents with red ones, makes the station less appealing. Saucer or dish style feeders are often better than inverted bottle models, as they limit the amount of nectar pooling near the port openings.
Strategic Placement and Environment
Where you hang the feeder is important for keeping hornets away. Hornets and wasps are drawn to bright, warm areas for foraging and prefer to operate in direct sunlight. Placing the hummingbird feeder in a location that receives deep or dappled shade throughout the day makes the station less attractive to them.
Moving the feeder a short distance, approximately 10 to 15 feet from its current spot, can disrupt a hornet’s established foraging pattern. While hummingbirds quickly locate the relocated food source, the insects often fail to immediately re-establish the new route. Ensure the feeder is not positioned near other insect attractants, such as compost piles, garbage cans, or ripening fruit trees, which can draw hornets into the area.
Nectar Concentration and Cleanliness
Maintaining the proper sugar-to-water ratio and cleanliness is important for discouraging pests. The standard nectar recipe is four parts water to one part refined white sugar, which closely mimics the natural sugar concentration of flowers. If hornets are persistent, slightly diluting the mix to a five-to-one ratio can make the nectar less appealing to them without significantly impacting the hummingbirds.
Leaks and drips are major attractants because they provide easily accessible nectar outside of the feeder ports. Ensure the feeder is hung level and that all seals and connections are tight to prevent any dripping. Sticky residue must be removed immediately after filling the feeder. Cleaning the entire feeder every two to three days in warm weather prevents the buildup of fermenting sugar that strongly draws insects.
Separate Deterrent Methods
Implementing diversionary tactics can successfully draw hornets away from the hummingbirds’ food supply. One effective method involves setting up a separate trap baited with a highly sweet solution or protein source. Place these traps at least 20 to 30 feet away from the hummingbird feeder to redirect the hornets’ attention.
The bait used in these traps should be much sweeter than the hummingbird nectar to maximize its appeal. Commercial or homemade traps can be filled with a mix of sugar water, jam, or even a small amount of meat, which is particularly attractive to yellow jackets. Avoid using chemical pesticides or aerosol sprays near the feeder, as the residue can easily contaminate the nectar or harm the hummingbirds.