Where To Hang Your Hummingbird Feeder?

Where to Hang Hummingbird Feeders?

Short answer: Hang feeders in shade near flowers, visible for cleaning/refilling.

Here’s why…

Where to hang hummingbird feeder?

Hummingbird feeders should be hung in a shaded area, away from direct sunlight, and near flowers or other plants that hummingbirds like.

They should also be placed in a location that is easily visible for cleaning and refilling.

4 Best Places for Hummingbird Feeders

Hummingbirds are fascinating birds that bring joy and beauty to any backyard. If you’re looking for the best place to hang your hummingbird feeder, consider one of these four options.

In a Hummingbird Garden

One of the best places to hang your hummingbird feeder is in a hummingbird garden. 

These gardens are filled with the flowers and plants that hummingbirds love, and they’re sure to attract plenty of these beautiful birds to your feeder. 

Be sure to place your feeder near the garden, so the hummingbirds can easily find it.

Near a Kitchen Window

Another great spot for your hummingbird feeder is near a kitchen window. 

This will give you a great view of the hummingbirds as they feed, and it’s a convenient spot for refilling and cleaning your feeder. 

Just be sure to place the feeder at least 3 feet away from the window, so the birds don’t fly into the glass.

Hanging From an Awning

If you have an awning on your patio or deck, consider hanging your hummingbird feeder from it. 

This will provide some protection from the elements, and it will also give the hummingbirds a shaded spot to feed. 

Just make sure the feeder is securely fastened to the awning, so it doesn’t fall down in a strong wind.

Under a Protective Cover

Finally, you may want to consider hanging your hummingbird feeder under a protective cover. 

This could be a porch roof, a tree canopy, or any other type of cover that provides shade and protection from the elements. 

This will help keep the nectar fresh and prevent spoilage, and it will also make the feeder more attractive to the hummingbirds.

Why Hummingbird Feeder Placement Matters

Choosing the right location for your hummingbird feeder can make a big difference in how successful you are in attracting hummingbirds. 

Here are some reasons why placement matters:

Leaks

Hummingbird feeders can leak, and if they do, you don’t want the nectar to end up on your patio or deck. 

That’s why it’s a good idea to hang your feeder in a spot where any leaks won’t cause a mess.

Spoiling

Hummingbird nectar can spoil quickly, especially in warm weather. 

If your feeder is in direct sunlight all day, the nectar will spoil even faster. To avoid this, choose a shady spot for your feeder.

Predators

Hummingbirds have many predators, including cats, squirrels, and larger birds. 

To protect the hummingbirds that visit your feeder, make sure it’s not in a spot where predators can easily ambush them.

Visibility

You’ll want to be able to see your hummingbirds when they visit your feeder, so choose a location that’s easily visible from inside your home or from your favorite outdoor sitting area.

Convenience

Finally, make sure your hummingbird feeder is in a spot that’s easy for you to access. You’ll need to refill it regularly, so you don’t want it in a location that’s difficult to reach.


Tips for Hummingbird Feeder Placement

Hummingbirds are fascinating and beautiful creatures that can bring life to any backyard. If you’re thinking about setting up a hummingbird feeder, placement is key. 

Here are some tips to help you find the perfect spot for your feeder:

Near Flowers

Hummingbirds love flowers, and they’re more likely to visit your feeder if it’s near a garden or flower bed. 

This is because they’re attracted to the colors and scents of the flowers, and will often stop to feed on nectar while they’re there.

Near Water

In addition to flowers, hummingbirds also need water to survive. You can help attract them to your feeder by placing it near a water source, such as a fountain or bird bath. 

This will give them a reason to stick around your yard and explore the area.

Well-Spaced

If you’re planning on setting up multiple hummingbird feeders, make sure they’re well-spaced. 

This will prevent the birds from fighting over the food and will give them plenty of room to feed comfortably.

Off the Ground

Hummingbirds are vulnerable to predators like cats and squirrels, so it’s important to hang your feeder off the ground. 

A good rule of thumb is to hang it at least 5 feet above the ground and away from any nearby trees or shrubs.

Shaded

Direct sunlight can cause the nectar in your feeder to spoil quickly, so it’s important to place it in a shaded area. 

This will keep the nectar fresh for longer and ensure that your feeder is a popular spot for hummingbirds.

Close

While you don’t want to place your feeder too close to the ground, you also don’t want to hang it too high up. 

Hummingbirds are small and agile, so they prefer feeders that are easy to access. A height of 4-5 feet off the ground is ideal.

Private

Hummingbirds are territorial creatures, and they don’t like to share their food with other birds. 

To make sure your feeder is a private spot for them to feed, try to place it away from other bird feeders and busy areas of your yard.

Safe

Predators like cats, squirrels, and hawks can pose a serious threat to hummingbirds. Make sure your feeder is in a safe location, away from any potential ambush points. 

You may also want to consider adding some protective netting around your feeder to keep the birds safe.

Convenient

Finally, make sure your feeder is in a convenient location for you to refill and clean. You’ll need to change the nectar every few days, so you don’t want it in a spot that’s difficult to access.

Noticeable

Hummingbirds have excellent eyesight, but they can still miss your feeder if it’s not noticeable. Try to place it in a location that’s easy to see from a distance, so the birds can spot it as they fly by.

Tips For Where To Hang Your Hummingbird Feeder

There are many factors that can increase or decrease the number of hummingbirds that visit your feeder.

You will not only want to make your feeder noticeable to these tiny creatures, but you will want to cater to their needs.

Hummingbirds prefer safe, convenient feeders that are in shaded, private areas that are well-spaced from other feeders.

Want to make sure your feeder is in the best possible place to attract hummingbirds? Check out our eight tips below.


Noticeable

Hummingbirds will seek out feeders, but if they are tucked away behind bushes or trees they may not see them.

While it is important to place the feeder by keeping the following tips in mind, make sure that your feeder is not hidden. 

Even if you are using the bright red nectar the birds may not be able to see the feeder if it is well disguised. The best way to ensure that they can see it is to use a bright colored feeder that does not blend into its surroundings. 


Safe

Always make sure to hang hummingbird feeders in a safe location. Hummingbirds will not be attracted to feeders if they feel unsafe. What makes a hummingbird feel unsafe you ask? Predators. 

If you hang a hummingbird feeder too close to the ground or in an area where the hummingbird’s natural predators can get to it then they will be unlikely to feed at that feeder.

Squirrels, cats, and other small animals can deter a hummingbird from feeding at your feeder. 

Keep your feeder high enough off the ground that cats cannot jump up to get a feeding hummingbird. Also, keep in mind how close windows are to the feeder.

If a feeder is not close enough or not far enough the hummingbird could potentially run into the window, causing it harm.


Private

Hummingbirds do not like to stay in areas where potential predators, like bigger birds, could harm them.

Try to place your hummingbird feeder in an area where other birds are not likely to frequent. 

In other words, do not place a hummingbird feeder right next to a bird feeder with bird seed.

Hummingbirds will not feed in this area. 

See Also: Florida Birds Of Prey: 21 Birds Of Prey In Florida To Watch


Shaded

Hummingbirds prefer shaded areas over bright and sunny ones. Additionally, bright and sunny areas can cause the nectar to become hot, spoil quickly, and cause the feeder to become too hot, too. 


Convenient

Not only should the hummingbird feeder be convenient for the hummingbird, but it should also be convenient for you.

Hummingbird feeders should be kept clean and full of fresh nectar to ensure happy hummingbirds are attracted. 

Place your feeder somewhere that you can gain access to it easily.

Do not place the hummingbird feeder so high that it’s out of your reach. Also, make sure that it is easy for you to get to. 

If you place your hummingbird feeder in a place where you can see it multiple times daily you will be able to ensure that it has plenty of nectar, is in a safe place, and you will be able to see the fruits of your labor – the hummingbirds, of course!


Close

If you place your hummingbird feeder in an awkward place you may not be able to see the hummingbirds when they come to feed.

If you place the hummingbird feeder in a position that is close enough for you to see you will enjoy it more. 

Close places can be in areas where you can see them feeding from inside your home, like a kitchen window. You might also like to place one near your patio or a bench if you visit that area often.


Protected

Protect your feeder from things that might put the hummingbird in danger or your feeder at risk for damage, such as the wind.

If the wind knocks the feeder to the ground make sure that it is not cracked, damaged, or broken.

Sharp edges of a damaged or broken feeder could hurt a feeding hummingbird. Place your feeder in an area that is protected from the elements such as wind, rain, or hail.


Well-spaced

Hummingbirds need feeders that are not too close to other objects so that they can feed properly.

If a feeder is placed in or near a bush that blocks the flight path of the bird they will be less likely to feed at that particular spot. 


Where to Hang Your Hummingbird Feeder

Now that you know the best ways to attract hummingbirds based on feeder placement, look at the following places to know where you should put your feeder. 


Hummingbird Garden

Hummingbird gardens are excellent places to put feeders. You can make your own garden by adding bright red flowers that attract hummingbirds. 


On or Near a Kitchen or Office Window

If you are frequently in the kitchen or office, this might be the best place for you to hang your feeder. You are more likely to catch a glimpse of a hummingbird that is using your feeder, too.


Hanging From a Gutter, Awning, or Gazebo

These areas are typically shaded and offer open, safe areas for hummingbirds. They make great spots for feeders.


Within 10 to 12 Feet of a Protective Cover

As with gutters, awnings, and gazebos, hanging feeders near protective covers can offer shade and a safe feeding area for the hummingbirds. 


FAQs About Hummingbird Feeders and Placement

FAQs About where to hang hummingbird feeder

If you’re new to hummingbird feeders, you might have some questions about where to hang them. Below are answers to some of the most common FAQs.

How close to the house should a hummingbird feeder be?

Hummingbird feeders should be hung at least 10 feet away from windows and doors, as hummingbirds can fly into them and get injured or killed. 

It’s also a good idea to hang the feeder away from high-traffic areas to avoid disturbing the birds.

Where is the best place to hang a bird feeder?

The best place to hang a hummingbird feeder is in a shaded area that’s protected from the wind. 

It’s also important to place the feeder near flowers and plants that hummingbirds like, as this will attract them to the feeder. 

Additionally, the feeder should be easy to access for cleaning and refilling.

How high should you hang a hummingbird feeder?

Hummingbird feeders should be hung at eye level or slightly higher, so you can easily see the birds as they feed. 

However, it’s important to ensure that the feeder is still easy to access for cleaning and refilling.

Can I put a hummingbird feeder close to the house?

Hummingbird feeders should be hung at least 10 feet away from windows and doors to prevent birds from flying into them. 

However, you can still hang the feeder close to the house if you have a porch or awning that provides some protection and shade.

Where is the best place to put a hummingbird house?

Hummingbird houses should be placed in a shaded area that’s protected from the wind and rain. 

They should also be hung at eye level or slightly higher and should be easy to access for cleaning and maintenance. 

Additionally, hummingbird houses should be placed away from feeders to prevent territorial disputes between birds.

Do hummingbirds sleep close to feeders?

Hummingbirds typically sleep in trees or other areas that provide some shelter and protection. While they may perch on or near feeders during the day, they usually don’t sleep there. 

It’s important to avoid disturbing the birds while they’re sleeping, as this can disrupt their natural behavior and cause stress.

Where should hummingbird feeders be placed in sun or shade?

Hummingbird feeders should be placed in an area that is shaded, for at least part of the day. This ensures that the nectar doesn’t spoil and doesn’t get too hot. 


Should hummingbird feeders be in the shade?

Yes, hummingbird feeders should be placed in the shade. 


Can you put a hummingbird feeder next to a bird feeder?

Hummingbird feeders should not be placed close to a bird feeder. Larger birds may detract the hummingbirds from feeding. 


How far apart should you hang your hummingbird feeders?

Where to hang hummingbird feeder

Hummingbird feeders should be hung far enough apart that the birds are able to maneuver to the feeders easily.

One rule of thumb is to place them one per each side of your house.

Clustering them could cause the birds to become territorial. 

Final Thoughts About where to hang hummingbird feeder

In conclusion, where you hang your hummingbird feeder can have a big impact on whether or not the birds visit and how well they thrive. 

By considering factors like proximity to flowers and water, protection from the elements, and safety from predators, you can choose the best location for your feeder. 

Remember to also keep the feeder clean and well-maintained, and be patient – it may take some time for the birds to discover and trust your feeder. 

With some careful planning and attention, you can enjoy the beauty and wonder of hummingbirds right in your own backyard.

Julian Goldie - Owner of ChiperBirds.com

Julian Goldie

I'm a bird enthusiast and creator of Chipper Birds, a blog sharing my experience caring for birds. I've traveled the world bird watching and I'm committed to helping others with bird care. Contact me at [email protected] for assistance.