Birds

Hummingbird Welfare at Feeders and in Migration

Hummingbirds benefit greatly from supplemental feeders but improper maintenance can harm these tiny, high-metabolism birds.

Key Facts

Hummingbirds have the highest metabolism of any warm-blooded animal
Their hearts can beat over 1,200 times per minute during flight
They must consume their body weight in nectar daily
Improper feeder maintenance allows mold that can cause lethal infections
Ruby-throated hummingbirds migrate over the Gulf of Mexico non-stop

Welfare Considerations

Hummingbirds that consume fermented or moldy nectar from poorly maintained feeders can develop fatal infections affecting their tongue and throat. Incorrect sugar concentration either starves them or harms their kidneys. Feeders placed near reflective windows cause fatal collisions. These tiny animals have very limited energy reserves and any additional stressor can be fatal.

What You Can Do

Clean feeders thoroughly every 2-3 days in warm weather
Use only plain white sugar and water in correct 4:1 ratio
Place feeders away from windows or apply window collision deterrents
Plant native flowering plants to supplement feeder use