Where Are the Hummingbirds? 7 Easy Tips to Bring Them In

• Posted on 15 April 2025
• By Michelle Corgan, AI Assisted
• Posted in hummingbirds, migration
• 0

Hummingbirds are one of the most magical visitors to our backyards—and with just a few simple tweaks, you can make your space a haven for them. From changing up your feeder location to planting native flowers, every little effort helps attract and support these tiny pollinators. Remember to keep things clean, stay patient, and enjoy the beauty of the season as you wait for their shimmering return. They're on their way—let's make sure we're ready to welcome them!

The hummingbirds are on their way, and we couldn’t be more excited! Any day now, we’ll start to see those tiny, shimmering wings zipping through the garden, bringing their magic to feeders and flowers alike. It’s one of our favorite signs that spring is truly here. But if you hang your feeder and you're still waiting for a visit, don’t worry—you’re not alone. Here are 7 simple things to try if the hummingbirds don't show up.

1. Try a New Location

Sometimes, all it takes is a little relocation. Hummingbirds are creatures of habit, but if your feeder is too exposed, too hidden, or simply not in their usual flight path, they might fly right past it. Try moving your feeder to a quieter spot with partial shade and nearby plants or shrubs. Bonus points if it’s near bright flowers—they’ll help catch a hummer’s eye and make your feeder part of the scenery they love.

Need a hand getting it just right? We have a great selection of shepherd’s hooks available in all sizes—perfect for finding that sweet spot in your garden!

2. Make Sure Your Feeder Is Clean

Hummingbirds are picky eaters—and who can blame them? A dirty feeder can quickly develop mold or ferment, which not only tastes bad but can be harmful to the birds. If your nectar looks cloudy or you notice any black spots inside the feeder, it’s time for a deep clean. Use hot water and a bottle brush (no soap needed!) and aim to clean your feeder every 2–3 days in warm weather. A clean feeder is an open invitation for hungry visitors.

Here are some accessories that will help keep your feeder clean:

Feeder fresh keeps your nectar fresh longer and the little brushes get the gunk out of the little ports!  They come in a set of 12.

3. Add More Varieties of Feeders

Just like people, hummingbirds have preferences—and sometimes a single feeder just doesn’t do the trick. Try offering a mix of feeder styles, such as classic bottle feeders, dish feeders, or ones with perches for resting. Multiple feeders in different areas of your yard not only attract more hummingbirds but also help reduce competition between territorial males. Think of it like creating little hummingbird hotspots throughout your space!

We have pretty much every type imaginable!

4. Add a Water Source

While nectar is their main fuel, hummingbirds also need fresh water to bathe and stay hydrated. A shallow birdbath with a gentle mister or drip feature can be incredibly appealing—especially if it catches the sunlight and sparkles! These little birds love moving water, and adding a water source can make your yard feel more like a hummingbird oasis. Just be sure to keep it clean and shallow enough for safe splashing.

Not only do we have a variety of bird baths, but we also have a variety of ways to get the water moving!

5. Deter Pests Like Ants and Bees

Uninvited guests like ants and bees can make hummingbirds steer clear of your feeder. To keep ants out, try using an ant moat—a small water-filled barrier that hangs above your feeder (we carry them in-store!). For bees, make sure your feeder ports are bee-resistant (the kind with built-in guards or recessed openings work best) or that you get bee guards.

6. Plant Native Flowers

Want to make your space even more irresistible to hummingbirds? Planting native flowers is one of the best long-term ways to attract them. Native blooms not only provide natural nectar sources but also support the local ecosystem. In Maine, hummingbirds especially love bee balm (Monarda), columbine, and cardinal flower.  These vibrant, tubular flowers are like neon signs for hungry hummers. Whether you have a full garden bed or a few pots on the patio, mixing in native plants will keep them coming back year after year.

7. Be Patient

Sometimes, even when you’re doing everything right, the hummingbirds still take their sweet time showing up. That’s totally normal! Natural cycles, blooming patterns, and migration timing can all affect when and where hummingbirds stop to feed. They may be favoring early blossoms or wildflowers nearby—but don’t worry, they’ll be back. Keeping your nectar fresh and your feeder clean ensures that when they do return, your yard will be ready to welcome them.