Ever since I became interested in birding, I’ve noticed that there seems to a bit of a divide in the birding community between fans of hummingbirds compared to the fans of more traditional songbirds. I’ve read information and opinions saying that it’s not a good idea to feed both bird types side by side. However, I’m a fan of both hummingbirds and traditional songbirds and I’ve done a bit of testing when it comes to placing a hummingbird feeder next to a traditional bird feeder. Hummingbirds can be fiercely territorial, especially during certain seasons. So, how did it turn out?
It’s not a good idea, and read on to see why.
Understanding Hummingbird and Bird Feeder Differences
First, its important to understand that hummingbird feeders are a specialized and differ markedly from traditional bird feeders.
For one, hummingbird feeders are specifically designed for those tiny, agile birds, often featuring unique designs like saucer and vacuum feeders that prevent nectar from attracting bees. They come in various materials, from plastic to glass, offering both aesthetic appeal and functionality. Birds show a clear preference for vacuum feeders, allowing them to consume more nectar per drink.
In contrast, traditional bird feeders cater to seed-eating birds, with designs like tube, hopper, and platform feeders. These feeders usually have perches and wide trays, allowing larger birds to feed comfortably.
Hummingbird Behavior vs Other Bird Species
Hummingbirds are incredibly territorial and aggressive, especially for their diminutive size. Typically the hummingbirds seem more aggressive towards other hummingbirds. However, I have observed instances where a hummingbird will also go after other bird species that land at the adjacent seed feeder. I’ve even seen a Ruby Throated hummer go after a Sharp-Shinned Hawk that swooped in trying to snag some chickadees on our deck. That Ruby went after him like a crazy person, and ended up driving it away.
I’ve also seen a hummingbird run off the larger Blue Jays and various Woodpecker species. They seem to have little to no fear of larger birds.
That being said, I’ve also seen situations where a congregation of birds at a nearby seed feeder will run the hummingbirds away from their feeding station. While the hummers are territorial, I suspect that several birds at a feed are enough to scare them off their feeder. Or, it could just depend on the personality of the individual hummingbird.
Benefits of Keeping Feeders Separate
Based on my experiment, it makes sense to keep hummingbird feeders separate from regular bird feeders. This approach should help reduce any territorial conflicts among the birds. This separation not only creates a more peaceful feeding environment but likely reduces the tension between species.
However, having just one hummingbird feeding station available will not reduce the aggression between hummingbirds. Brad and I now keep 3 different hummingbird feeders out and try to place each feeder out of sight of the other. More feeders mean less competition, allowing hummingbirds to feel safer and less stressed. This is another way to reduce the fighting among territorial hummingbirds.
Spacing Feeders Out
When it comes to the amount of space between hummer feeders and seed feeders, what’s a good distance? I would say that 15 to 20 feet apart is a good starting point. However, hummingbirds become more aggressive during certain periods (mating, migrations, etc.) so you may find that, during those periods, its necessary to space the feeders more then 20 feet apart.
I’m also of the opinion that all birds are different and have different responses to stimuli. For example, one summer we had a male Ruby Throated hummer who was a backyard bully. He was incredibly territorial and bullied almost any other bird that came anywhere near the hummer feeder he claimed. Even when we were refilling the feeder, he would buzz around us squeaking and calling aggressively. He would fly so close you could feel the breeze from his wings. We only saw him one summer, but he still stands out as the most aggressive hummingbird I’ve encountered.
In most situations, feeder separation is necessary and encourages the birds to focus on feeding rather than defending their territory.
Why Are Hummingbirds So Territorial
There are several theories as to what makes the Hummingbird so territorial and aggressive. Here are few of those theories:
Increased Metabolic Function
Hummingbirds have the highest metabolic rate per mass of any animal on the planet. They expend the human equivalent of 150,000 calories per day. To power that increased metabolic rate, this species consumes anywhere from 2-3 times their body weight in food daily, and eats every 10 to 15 minutes. Since food can be a limited resource, Hummers become extremely territorial around a food source.
Mating
Male hummingbirds display dominant behavior to attract females and then defend their territory from other males. Their aggression and territoriality significantly increases during the mating season so they can be viewed as an attractive mate.
Migration
Depending on the species and home geography, some hummingbird species are non-migratory. However, this species doesn’t do well in colder weather, so many hummingbird species migrate south when the temperatures being to drop.
The migration is taxing on these small birds so they are required to constantly stop to feed. If they stop in an area where food resources are limited, that can result in intense competition for the food that is available. This competition for food can lead to displays of extreme aggression and territoriality for feeding rights.
Final Thoughts
When possible, the best practice is to put some distance between hummingbird feeders and traditional seed feeders. This approach can reduce aggression and fighting between hummingbirds and other songbird species.
Spacing the feeders apart should reduce the tensions and competition for food, which makes their feeding a more pleasant experience for the birds and for you as a fan.