Wild Birds Unlimited introduced a "mini" hummingbird feeder a year or so ago, holding just 4 ounces of nectar but still sporting most of the outstanding features of a full sized WBU High Perch Hummingbird Feeder. It has the high perch that allows better and longer views of the hummingbirds, 2-piece non-drip design, super easy to clean, and clear bottom to view the hummingbird's lapping tongue.
Some of you (especially those who host dozens of hummingbirds at a time) may scoff at the idea of a feeder with only a 4 ounce capacity, but I think the small capacity is a benefit, not a weakness. Here's why:
- Fresher nectar for the birds.
Because it holds only 4 ounces, it empties more frequently so you are refilling it with fresh nectar more frequently. Which leads to.... - More hummingbird visits.
Because you are filling a mini with fresh nectar more often, hummingbirds are more attracted to it. Hummingbirds seek out the highest quality nectar they can find, and you are now providing refreshed, high quality nectar more often. - Better for the hummingbirds.
Because the fresh nectar in a mini is consumed quickly, it is less likely the nectar will sit for days or weeks only to become moldy and bad for the birds. - A great way to provide multiple feeders to deter bully hummingbirds.
A mini hummingbird feeder is a cost effective and efficient way to hang 3, 4 or even more feeders around your yard to reduce the chances that a bully hummingbird will drive other hummingbirds off all the feeders. - A great way to provide nectar late in the season.
In late summer when hummingbird activity declines, a mini feeder is the ideal feeder to hang for late migrating birds. Put 3-4 ounces of nectar in the mini and replace it with fresh nectar every 4-5 days. You'll waste less nectar but still be providing a source of quality nectar for any hummingbird that comes through your yard late in the season.
As you can tell, I've really grown to love this sweet little feeder and throughout the summer, I keep 3 of them around my yard. And now that we are in the days when the very last of the hummingbirds are passing through, I have a single mini in my yard and will keep it there well into October. One of these years, I may just be rewarded for my diligence!
Get a Wild Birds Unlimited Mini High Perch Hummingbird feeder at Wild Birds Unlimited - Saratoga Springs NY, or at your local WBU or online.
Thank you Lucy!!!!
Posted by: The Zen Birdfeeder | September 19, 2016 at 10:44 AM
Switched to homemade nectar today! If it's healthier for my hummingbirds, then that's what it's gotta be! I LOVE those tiny amazing birds!
Posted by: Lucy | September 16, 2016 at 03:56 AM
Mary, thank you so much for switching to CLEAR hummingbird nectar!!!
Posted by: The Zen Birdfeeder | March 15, 2016 at 02:32 PM
Thank you for telling me about the red dye in the hummingbird feeder. i will tell my friends.
Mary Thea
Posted by: Mary kanw | February 21, 2016 at 04:46 PM
Me too Joyce! It's 9/30 and I will keep my mini hummingbird feeder out for at least a couple more weeks. With my fingers crossed!
Posted by: The Zen Birdfeeder | September 30, 2015 at 11:04 AM
I'm also patiently waiting for a traveling hummer!
Posted by: Joyce | September 22, 2015 at 12:43 PM