Do hummingbirds need a perch to drink?
No. They are used to hovering when drinking nectar from flowers and don't need a perch to enjoy nectar from a feeder. However, they will use a perch if one is available and that allows us to enjoy them more closely.
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How many varieties of hummingbirds are there and where can they be found?
Hummingbirds can be found all across North America. Seventeen varieties can be found west of the Mississippi reaching as far north as Alaska. Only one species, the Ruby Throat, is found east of the Mississippi and reaches up into Canada.
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Are hummingbirds all the same size?
No. The smallest hummingbird, Cuban Bee is only 2 1/4" long. The largest Hummingbird is the 8 1/2" long Patagonia.
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What about foods that provide extra protein?
Hummingbirds derive protein from insects and do not need protein supplements.
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Is there cause to be concerned about using red colored hummingbird nectar?
All red dyes on the market now have been extensively studied and approved by the Food and Drug Administration as being safe for human and animal consumption.
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Is it normal for my feeder to leak sometimes?
Yes. When the nectar in the container (which must be airtight) begins to deplete, the empty space is replaced with air. When the air expands, either because of air pressure at higher altitudes or because it's been heated by sunlight, it can force some of the fluid to leak out of the feeding ports. As a general rule, we recommend you try to keep the feeder out of direct sun and keep it full.
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What can I do to discourage bees?
Try and keep the outside of the feeder clean. Any nectar on the outside surface may attract bees.
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What can I do to discourage ants?
An ant moat (most of Opus feeders have built-in ant moats) should help. Use 3 to 5 drops of diesel fuel in the ant moat. It won't evaporate like water. You can also try wiping the hanging wire or rope and feeding ports with salad oil to make it difficult for the ants to get on the feeder.
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Where is the best location for my hummingbird feeder?
Out of direct sunlight, away from windy areas and out of reach of cats. You may also want to place the feeder in and around trumpeting flowers.
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How often should I clean my hummingbird feeder?
In warm weather (over 60 F) every 2 days and in cool weather every 3-4 days. Always use fresh sugar solutions when refilling.
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Can I use ordinary sugar from the grocer?
If GardenSong Hummingbird Food is unavailable, you may use the following recipe: Mix one part sugar and four parts water. You can add a few drops of USDA approved red food coloring. We recommend you boil the solution to retard fermentation. Let the solution cool before pouring in nectar container. Refrigerate unused solution in a closed glass jar. Use sugar solutions only, honey may cause liver damage and be fatal to hummingbirds.
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Will hummingbirds stay too long if feeder is kept past the birds' migratory schedules?
No. They migrate regardless of food availability.
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Is it OK to have more than one feeder?
Absolutely. Hummingbirds are very territorial and will fight over feeders.
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What are some of the flowers that hummingbirds feed on?
Cross Vine, Trumpet Vine, Cardinal flower, Wild Columbine, Firewood, Trumpet Honeysuckle, Red Iris, Indian Pinks, Bee Balm, Purple Bergament, Indian Paintbrush, Fire Pink.
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What is the advantage of a glass container for nectar?
Glass is easier to clean and resists scratching.
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