The best feeder for broad-tailed hummingbirds
Breeds at 6,000–10,000 ft; can drop body temperature overnight to survive frosty mountain nights.
Feeder styles that work
Easy to scrub every 2–3 days; built-in ant moat helps.
What to fill it with
- Sugar water 1:4
Sizing the feeder to the bird
The Broad-tailed Hummingbird measures 3.5–3.9 in and weighs 0.1 oz. Perches, ports and landing surfaces need to fit that frame — too small and the bird can't feed comfortably, too open and larger birds and squirrels dominate.
Keep it clean
Scrub feeders every two weeks in hot soapy water, soak 10 minutes in a 1:9 bleach solution, rinse and dry before refilling. Rake up hulls underneath.
Frequently asked
What kind of feeder is best for broad-tailed hummingbirds?
Saucer nectar feeder. Easy to scrub every 2–3 days; built-in ant moat helps.
What should I put in a feeder for broad-tailed hummingbirds?
Sugar water 1:4.
Where should I place a feeder for broad-tailed hummingbirds?
Breeds at 6,000–10,000 ft; can drop body temperature overnight to survive frosty mountain nights.
Sources
- Broad-tailed Hummingbird — All About Birds, Cornell Lab of Ornithology
- Broad-tailed Hummingbird life history — Cornell Lab of Ornithology
- Broad-tailed Hummingbird — Audubon Guide to North American Birds
Timing reflects typical patterns for the region as a whole; local dates vary with elevation and year. Check the linked eBird bar charts for your county.