Why Do Hummingbird Feeders Drip?
Hummingbird feeders that operate using a vacuum commonly drip and leak. Dripping feeders can cause problems that will deter hummingbirds from using the feeder. Fortunately, with care and proper placement, hummingbird feeder leaks can be avoided. Does this Spark an idea?
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Causes
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Gravity feeders, like the common inverted bottle-type hummingbird feeder, must have a proper seal or they will drip and leak. Leaks may also form in these feeders where the upside-down bottle screws into the base. Hummingbird feeders placed in the sun also leak because air trapped at the top of the bottle expands when it warms, thus pushing nectar out of the feeding ports.
Consequences
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Negative consequences result from dripping hummingbird feeders. Most obviously, nectar intended for the hummingbirds is wasted. Nectar can also accumulate on the exterior of the feeder and attract unwanted visitors, like bees and wasps. Empty feeders and swarms of bees both will detract hummingbirds from feeding in your garden.
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Prevention
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When filling your gravity feeder, use cool nectar and be sure that the feeder seal is airtight. To ensure a vacuum forms, the feeder must be completely full and the stopper and rim of the feeder must be dry. Then insert the feeding tube, making sure it is positioned ¼ inch into the stopper. Place the hummingbird feeder in a shaded area, protected from wind.
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References
- Photo Credit Dynamic Graphics Group/Dynamic Graphics Group/Getty Images
