humming bird feeders
Posted by Kathy Brandenburg on April 20, 2006
Q: How do I keep bees, away from the humming bird feeder ?
State: California
A: I have the very same problem at my feeder. As far as I know, there is no way to keep the wasps/bees from using the feeder too. I notice that the hummingbirds still can get in there to eat so I don't think it's too big of a problem. Do keep in mind that the wasps in your area are eagerly looking for caterpillars to feed their young so they help with trees, shrubs, and garden plants in your community. Of course, bees are useful pollinators so maybe sharing some of your sugar water isn't such a bad idea. Thanks for asking.
John Wiessinger ( April 20, 2006)
A: Here's an idea for you. Some manufacturers make a "bee guard" for their hummingbird feeders. A "bee guard" is merely a basket-like extension placed on the end of the feeder tube. Because a bee's proboscis (a straw like structure used for sucking nectar) is shorter than a hummingbird's tongue it can reach as far. If it can't reach the nectar it will go somewhere else.
Jim Berry ( April 20, 2006)