Hummingbird feeders are a wonderful way to attract these tiny, vibrant birds to your garden. However, they can also attract unwanted visitors—ants! Ants are drawn to the sweet nectar and can quickly overrun your feeder, making it less appealing to hummingbirds and creating a mess. But don’t worry, there are plenty of clever ways to keep ants at bay. In this guide, I’ll share seven effective strategies to protect your hummingbird feeder from ants so you can enjoy watching these delightful birds without the hassle.
1. Use an Ant Moat
An ant moat is a simple yet highly effective tool to keep ants away from your feeder.
- How It Works: An ant moat is a small cup filled with water that creates a barrier ants can’t cross.
- How to Use: Hang the moat above your feeder, ensuring the feeder hangs below it. Fill the moat with water and check it regularly to keep it full.
- DIY Option: You can make your own moat using a small plastic container or bottle cap.
2. Apply Petroleum Jelly or Cooking Oil
A sticky barrier can deter ants from climbing the feeder.
- How It Works: Ants won’t cross slippery surfaces like petroleum jelly or cooking oil.
- How to Use: Apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly or cooking oil to the hanger or pole of the feeder. Reapply as needed, especially after rain.
3. Choose a Feeder with Built-In Ant Protection
Some feeders come with built-in ant moats or other ant-deterrent features.
- How It Works: These feeders are designed to prevent ants from reaching the nectar.
- How to Use: Look for feeders with ant moats, bee guards, or other protective features when shopping for a new feeder.
4. Hang the Feeder from a Fishing Line
Fishing line is too thin for ants to climb.
- How It Works: Ants struggle to navigate thin, slippery surfaces like fishing line.
- How to Use: Replace the feeder’s hanger with fishing line and hang it from a tree branch or hook.
5. Use a Water Trap
A water trap can stop ants in their tracks.
- How It Works: Place the feeder in a shallow dish of water to create a barrier ants can’t cross.
- How to Use: Fill the dish with water and place the feeder in the center. Ensure the feeder doesn’t touch the sides of the dish.
6. Keep the Area Clean
Ants are attracted to spills and drips, so maintaining a clean feeding area is key.
- How It Works: Removing food sources discourages ants from coming near the feeder.
- How to Use: Regularly clean the feeder and the area around it to remove spilled nectar.
7. Relocate the Feeder
Sometimes, moving the feeder can solve the problem.
- How It Works: Ants follow scent trails, so relocating the feeder disrupts their path.
- How to Use: Move the feeder to a new location, preferably away from trees or structures where ants might climb.
Bonus Tips
- Avoid Overfilling: Fill the feeder with just enough nectar to last a day or two to minimize spills.
- Use Ant-Proof Nectar: Some commercial nectars are formulated to deter ants.
- Check for Leaks: Ensure your feeder doesn’t leak, as drips can attract ants.
Final Thoughts
Keeping ants out of your hummingbird feeder doesn’t have to be a battle. With these seven clever strategies, you can create a safe and inviting space for hummingbirds while keeping ants at bay. Whether you use an ant moat, a sticky barrier, or simply relocate the feeder, these tips will help you enjoy the beauty of hummingbirds without the nuisance of ants. Happy birdwatching!
