Hummers Away

Sorry I haven’t written in a few weeks! Cardinal sin among blogs.

We’ve recently received a question from a Dr. JB customer who says that due to going on vacation, the feeder went dry. When she returned and cleaned/refilled the feeder, the hummers did not return. Additionally, there were a couple carpenter ants that had found their way into the base and died there. She questions whether or not their presence disturbed the birds, contaminated the feeder, etc.

I would tend to think that the cleaning takes care of any contamination issues, and that the hummers are using another source. But would they stay away from the feeder for a week or two before visiting regularly again? A couple of us at Dr. JB’s have experienced that in the past. I try not to take it personally or assume that the hummers don’t like me any more.

So, unfortunately the best remedy I have for re-establishing regular feeding is patience, a clean feeder, and fresh nectar. That is, until we invent a hummingbird call. Hmmm.

Anybody else have the same experience. Other ideas, advice?

Happy feeding,

Chris

2 comments July 22nd, 2006