9 Easy Ways to Keep Bees From Invading Your Hummingbird

Watching hummingbirds visit your feeder can be a delightful experience, but it’s frustrating when bees dominate the nectar. Fortunately, there are safe, effective strategies to protect your hummingbird feeder from bees without harming these important pollinators. By making a few adjustments, you can enjoy the beauty of hummingbirds while keeping bees at bay.
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1. Use Bee-Resistant Feeders

Some feeders are specifically designed to deter bees and wasps. Look for feeders with bee guards over the feeding ports, which allow hummingbirds to feed freely while keeping bees out.

2. Choose Feeders With Red Coloring Only

Hummingbirds are attracted to red, while bees are more drawn to yellow. Opting for feeders that are predominantly red can reduce unwanted bee visits.

3. Hang Feeders Away From Flowering Plants

Bees are naturally attracted to flowers. By positioning your feeder away from flower beds and flowering shrubs, you reduce the likelihood of bee interference.

4. Use Nectar Without Over-Sweet Concentration

Mix sugar water at the recommended ratio of 1 part sugar to 4 parts water. Overly sweet nectar can attract bees more than hummingbirds, so avoid over-concentrated sugar solutions.

5. Clean Feeders Regularly

Bees are attracted to sticky residue around feeder ports. Cleaning your feeder weekly prevents sugar buildup and reduces bee visits while keeping the nectar safe and fresh for hummingbirds.

6. Add Multiple Feeders

Placing a few feeders in different locations can help distract bees and ensure hummingbirds still have access to food without competition.

7. Use Ant Moats

While primarily for ants, moats filled with water above the feeder can prevent both ants and some bees from reaching the nectar. Ensure the hummingbird can still access the ports safely.

8. Offer Alternative Bee Food Sources

Planting bee-friendly flowers or a small bee water station away from your feeder can divert bees from the hummingbird nectar. Providing an alternative food source keeps them busy and reduces interference.

9. Adjust Feeder Height

Bees often access feeders closer to the ground. Raising your hummingbird feeder higher can reduce bee visits while still being accessible to hummingbirds.

Conclusion

Keeping your hummingbird feeder from bees doesn’t require harmful chemicals or traps. By choosing bee-resistant feeders, adjusting placement, providing proper nectar, and offering alternative resources, you can enjoy the vibrant activity of hummingbirds without upsetting local pollinators. With these nine simple strategies, both hummingbirds and bees can thrive safely in your garden.