How to Keep Bees Out of the Humming Bird Feeders

Use hummingbird feeders that do not feature yellow painted parts.

Installing hummingbird feeders around your property can help you catch glimpses of these wondrous creatures in flight. Unfortunately, bees, wasps and other undesirable pests love the same sugary feed hummingbirds do and the feeders will attract them to your property. Bees are particularly attracted to the color yellow, so you should avoid buying feeders that feature this color. With a little know how and planning, you can attract hummingbirds without luring insects at the same time.

Things You'll Need

• Hummingbird feeders with bee guards
• Butter or cooking spray
• Petroleum jelly
• Mexican heather plants

Instructions

1. Replace older hummingbird feeders with ones that feature specially designed bee guards. These bee guards will restrict access to the nectar, only allowing hummingbirds to enjoy it.

2. Apply a small amount of butter or cooking spray to the openings of the hummingbird feeder. This will make the feeder unattractive to bees and prompt them to look for another food source. Apply the butter or cooking spray to the feeder openings after filling it with nectar, during the morning time and when the weather is cool.

3. Plant Mexican heather plants in remote areas of your property. This plant will divert the bees away from your hummingbird feeders by giving them an alternative food source.

References

• Houston Grows: How to keep bees out of my hummingbird feeders?