PSA: Keep Hummingbird Feeders Clean, or Don’t Put Them Out at All

We do not have any hummingbird feeders hanging from our back porch, but we do have tons of hanging baskets that attract these beautiful birds. After seeing this post on The Unintentional Urban Farmer's Facebook page, we wanted to warn anyone with feeders. 

The post reinforces that you must clean the feeder at least every 4-5 days.

"If you put out a hummingbird feeder, and don't clean it at least every 4-5 days, this is what happens. Keep your hummer feeders clean, or don't put them out at all. Mildew forming inside the nectar infects their tongues, causing their tongues to swell, and they slowly starve to death. Then all the babies in their nests die as well. (Notice their tongues are out)."

These birds died from starving to death! Lesson learned that we need to clean those feeders and add fresh nectar as often as possible! It's just like the chickens. We have to replace their water every day or it's likely they won't drink at all.

How to clean a feeder

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A post shared by Kari Foto (@4karifoto) on Jul 8, 2019 at 3:40pm PDT

Perkypet.com has great tips on how to clean a hummingbird feeder.

1. Empty your feeder and dispose of any leftover nectar.
2. Take apart your hummingbird feeder.
3. Create a mild solution of soap and hot water and allow the feeder to soak.
4. Using a cleaning mop, scrub away any nectar residue or mold buildup.
5. Rinse your hummingbird feeder with cold water.
6. Allow feeder to air dry before refilling.

You should check out their Facebook post if you have any questions about this specific incident.

Hummingbird nectar should be replaced every 3-5 days and remember that the feeding ports should also be cleaned out so you don't have black mold living anywhere.

Now, hummingbirds have food sources outside your feeder but clean feeders at least once a week for these visitors!

Know someone who has hummingbird feeders? Share this post! Tell us in the comments below!

This post was originally published on July 8, 2019.

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