• Hummingbirds typically migrate north to their breeding grounds, with some arriving in the southern U.S. and western states as early as February, and to areas further north later in the spring. 

🕊️ When to Put Out Your Feeder:

To attract early migrating hummingbirds, set up your feeders by mid-March in southern states.

In northern states, place feeders a week or two later as migration moves north.

💧 Making the Perfect Nectar:

Use tap water and refined white sugar (table sugar)—the safest and closest match to natural nectar.

Avoid honey, corn syrup, raw or unprocessed sugars, as they can be harmful to hummingbirds.

Never add red food coloring, Kool-Aid packets, or other artificial dyes—natural nectar is colorless, and these additives can be harmful.

🌡️ How Often to Change Nectar:

Replace the sugar water at least once a week to keep it fresh.

In hotter weather or if your feeder is in direct sunlight, change it every 2-3 days to prevent spoilage.

During peak summer heat, you may need to refresh nectar daily to ensure hummingbirds have a clean and safe food source.

• Be mindful of placing feeders away from glass windows and doors, as hummingbirds can have difficulty discerning reflections and may collide with glass.
• Hummingbird feeders should generally be placed in a shaded area, as direct sunlight can cause the nectar to spoil quickly, especially on hot days;ideally, look for a spot with afternoon shade to protect the nectar from the most intense heat.

Most of these birds DO return to the same feeders or gardens to breed year after year. Often stopping at the same spots along the way and arrive on the same date!

🐦 Hummingbirds are naturally territorial, especially when food sources are limited. In the wild, they must defend flowers to ensure they have enough nectar to survive. This instinct is so strong that they don't recognize feeders as unlimited food sources—they still see them as something to protect!

To reduce competition, consider adding multiple feeders in different locations to give more hummingbirds a chance to feed peacefully.