Feeders can be used to attract hummingbirds before many of your
flowers bloom. Another advantage of feeders is that they can be
moved near a window or other desirable location where plants may
not be suitable. Place the feeder in a semi-protected place
where rain cannot dilute the nectar mixture in the end of the
tube. Avoid direct sunlight as heat may cause the nectar to
expand and be lost unnecessarily. Heat also enhances bacterial
growth. If ants are attracted, moisten the hanging wire with
salad oil. Bee guards prevent bees from using the feeder.
Clusters of bees will keep hummers away. Use either instant
nectar preparation available at many nurseries and other
retailers, or prepare your own nectar with 1 part sugar to 4
parts boiled water. It is not necessary to add red food coloring
although you may if your feeder tube lacks this color.