How do you keep bees away from a hummingbird feeder?
Quick Answer
Methods to keep bees away from hummingbird feeders include choosing feeders with bee guards, avoiding feeders with the color yellow, moving the feeder and keeping the feeder filled with fresh nectar. Leaking feeders are more likely to attract bees. If other attempts fail, provide a separate bowl of nectar
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Full Answer
Feeders with bee guards have a fine mesh that keeps bees away while still allowing the hummingbirds to reach into the tube to feed. The design of these feeders keeps the nectar lower, making it even more difficult for the bees to feed. Some feeders have the option of attaching a nectar guard to the ports.
The color yellow and older nectar are particularly attractive to bees. When buying a new feeder, look for one that is solid red in color so that you do not have to add coloring to the nectar. Empty, wash and fill the feeder with fresh nectar on a daily basis. If the feeder attracts too many bees, the hummingbirds are likely to give up and move on to another feeder.
Move the feeder to a new location to confuse problem bees. They tend to return to the same location to feed, so a move of just a few feet often solves the bee problem.
Leaking feeders form pools of evaporating nectar on the ground that attracts bees. Some feeders leak due to the expansion of nectar in the hot sun. Move the unit to the shade, and make sure the ports and lid are tight.
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