But when is it time for the feeder to come down?
Want more gardening tips?
This isn’t actually how it works, says biologist David Mann, founder of bird sound identifier Haikubox.
Attract hummingbirds with a simple nectar recipe.jeffreyw/ Flickr / CC by 2.0
“Migration is triggered by changes in day length.
As summer wanes and days grow shorter, migrating birds get restless and eventually begin their journey.”
It doesn’t matter if there is areliable food source nearby, adds Mann.
ROBYN BECK / Getty Images
So, instead of trying to deprive hummingbirds hummingbirds of their food, it should be the opposite.
You want to give hummingbirds one last, hearty meal before you send them on their way.
They need all the energy they can get for their long journey south.
Chelsea Sampson / Getty Images
Resident vs. Migratory Hummingbirds
Not all hummingbirds migrate.
Keeping feeders filled for a little while longer can help residents, as well as the late migrants.
Some feeders can be disassembled and sterilized in the dishwasher.
Older feeders or feeders that are in delicate condition should be cleaned by hand.
Pour a diluted bleach solution through them and rinse them with clean water.
Dry, cover, and store the feeder for the winter.
You’ll catch the first arrivals, often hungry from their long trip back.
They are particularly fond of lupine, petunia, salvia, and zinnia to name a few plants.
Hummingbird Feeding FAQs,National Audubon Society
Do Hummingbirds Migrate?American Bird Conservancy.
How to Clean Your Bird Feeder.
CornellLab / Cornell University.
