Weindependently evaluateall of our recommendations.
If you select links we provide, we may receive compensation.
to see what worksand work, they did.
The Spruce
Look for options that are easy to take apart and clean, so it’s not a hassle.
The wide-mouth reservoir means easy filling, and the two-part bases twist apart for a thorough cleaning.
A tight seal prevents the feeder from leaking, even when turned upside down.
PHOTO: Amazon
The smaller capacity also means that you will likely have to refill it more frequently.
This feeder has protection against ants, but not bees.
Size:10 ounces |Shape:Inverted |Material:Plastic
What do I put in a hummingbird feeder?
The Sewanta Plastic Hummingbird Feeder has a wide opening and easily opens for cleaning.PHOTO: The Spruce
Hummingbird food, or “nectar,” is surprisingly easy to make at home.
Ourhummingbird nectar recipeinvolves dissolving one part of granulated sugar in four parts water.
While testing this feeder in our backyard, we noted that the bright red drew regular visitors.
The feeder’s wide mouth made it super easy to fill and clean.
It has an S hook that easily slips onto a tree.
Plus, the transparent glass made it easy to monitor the nectar glass.
The wide-mouth bottle is removable for easy filling and cleaning.
We tested theaqua-mint versionand suspect that a red hue would likely attract more birds.
There are several antique bottle shapes, including anelixir bottleanda mason jar.
The only hiccup to the otherwise solid design is the hanging mechanism.
On a positive note, this minor flaw doesnt seem to discourage regular visitors.
Size:20 ounces |Shape:Inverted |Material:Glass
How often should I clean hummingbird feeders?
PHOTO: Amazon
Since the top snaps open easily, we had no problem adding nectar or cleaning it.
We also love that it has a built-in moat to prevent ants and insects from crawling into the nectar.
The lower section is also red, to attract hummingbirds.
The First Nature Hummingbird Feeder was easy to hang on our tree and attracted neighborhood hummingbirds.The Spruce
This unit has yellow flower feeding ports, but you canpurchase replacement portsin a variety of colors.
The reservoir has the smallest capacity on our list.
So, while it wont bring in a large flock, its an ideal size for a few hummingbirds.
PHOTO: The Spruce / Sarah Vanbuskirk
If you do choose toplace the hummingbird feederon a window, just confirm the suction cup is secure.
It protects the nectar from invading ants with a moat, and it’s easy to fill and clean.
Shape and Style
There are two common hummingbird feeder shapes: inverted and saucer.
The More Birds Vintage Hummingbird Feeder has five bright red feeding ports help attract hummingbirds.PHOTO: The Spruce
Unlike inverted feeders, saucer feeders are easy to fill and clean and are more resistant to leaks.
They also provide an open view of hummingbird activity.
Since saucer feeders dont hold as much food as inverted feeders, they have to be filled more frequently.
Hummingbirds appear at different times of the year, depending on where you live.
In northern parts of the U.S., hummingbirds will probably not arrive until late April or early May.
You may want to look for a feeder that has a built-in ant moat or bee guard.
(These accessories can also be purchased separately.)
These can help prevent yellow jackets from feasting on your sugar water.
Hummingbird feeders with a glass reservoir are easier to clean than plastic.
However, plastic hummingbird feeders may have an edge when it comes to durability.
They’re much more likely to survive a drop, for example.
Why Trust The Spruce?
PHOTO: The Spruce
Sage McHughspecializes in the home and garden sector and has been writing for The Spruce since 2019.
She makes sure to recommend products that are stylish, functional, and well-reviewed by consumers.
Our Experts:
Feeding Hummingbirds.Audubon California, National Audubon Society.
The saucer shape and removable cover makes the Aspects Hummingbird Feeder easy to clean.The Spruce
PHOTO: Walmart
The More Birds Purple Glass Nectar Hummingbird Feeder has beautiful etched details and a vintage-inspired design.PHOTO: The Spruce
PHOTO: The Spruce / Eric Brockob
The Perky-Pet Window Mount Plastic Hummingbird Feeder has suction cups to attach it to a window.PHOTO: The Spruce
The Spruce
The Spruce
The Spruce
The Spruce
We tested both glass and plastic inverted feeders.The Spruce
