The best feeder for rufous hummingbirds
The most aggressive hummingbird — one male may guard all feeders; hang several out of sight of each other.
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 Rufous Hummingbird measures 2.8–3.5 in and weighs 0.1–0.2 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 rufous hummingbirds?
Saucer nectar feeder. Easy to scrub every 2–3 days; built-in ant moat helps.
What should I put in a feeder for rufous hummingbirds?
Sugar water 1:4.
Where should I place a feeder for rufous hummingbirds?
The most aggressive hummingbird — one male may guard all feeders; hang several out of sight of each other.
Sources
- Rufous Hummingbird — All About Birds, Cornell Lab of Ornithology
- Rufous Hummingbird life history — Cornell Lab of Ornithology
- Rufous 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.