Once the insects find the feeder, they will bring other hive residents to the source.
“Yellowjackets are extremely persistent when they find an easy food source,” entomologist Chris M. Williams says.
Attach Bee Guards
Bee guards keep bees andyellow jacketsoff the feeding ports, Williams says.
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Cut, bend, and fold the screen to the proper shape to fit over each feeding port.
Do not use soap because the residue can leave harmful residue.
After refilling, carefully wipe away any sticky residue on the outside of the nectar reservoir.
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There is no need to add red dye to the mixture and it may harm the hummers.
The hummingbirds will find the feeder easily but the bees may move on to another location.
Bees are most attracted bybee balm,Mexican petunias,zinnias,butterfly weed, andlavender.
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Fill a shallow saucer with sugar water.
Add some stones so the bees can feed without drowning.
Williams suggests placing the feeder at least 6 feet away from the hummingbird feeders.
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Check and refill the bee feeder often.
Bees use pollen for protein while hummingbirds consume insects like mosquitoes, aphids, and fruit flies.
Hummingbird Feeding FAQs.National Audubon Society.
