birdsoup

The sweet nectar we put into feeders to attract hummingbirds also attracts other creatures with a “sweet tooth”, mostly ants and bees.  Fortunately, we can discourage these unwanted visitors.  Most good quality hummingbird feeders have built-in bee guards that prevent bees from getting to the nectar.  A simple ant moat, built into some feeders will totally prevent ants from getting on to a hanging feeder.  The real challenge has always been how to prevent the ants that climb up to a hummingbird feeder from the ground.

I just learned about a new anti-ant technique that sound promising.  It involves applying liquid laundry detergent to the poles, stakes, branches, and other surfaces that the ants climb on to reach the feeder.  Do not apply detergent to the feeder itself.  There is something in detergent that interferes with an ant’s chemical navigation. The first day you should apply it several times.  After a few days, you will not need it anymore.   It definitely sounds like it is worth a try if you are harassed by ants.