The Best Time To Take Down Hummingbird Feeders, According To Experts

Seeing hummingbirds delight at backyard feeders is one of the many joys of birders across the South, but making sure they are kept happy–and staying at your feeder–can be an overwhelming thought.

Depending on where you live, the hummingbird feeder can be put out as early as late February, but when should you take down hummingbird feeders?

According to the National Audubon Society, feeders can be kept out as long as there are hummingbirds around.

“You can even continue to provide the feeder after your hummingbirds disappear—late migrants or out-of-range species can show up into early winter,” their website states. “Follow the guidelines for keeping the feeders clean, even if the nectar goes untouched. Always discard any unused nectar in the feeder when you take it down for cleaning.”

Sea McKeon, Director of Marine Program for American Bird Conservancy, agrees.

“I live in central Florida,” McKeon tells Southern Living. “If you have the wherewithal to maintain hummingbird feeders year-round here, there is a chance at having hummers present at any season."

When To Take Down Hummingbird Feeders

McKeon says that in Florida–and the East Coast more generally–there is one species of hummingbird commonly visiting feeders: the Ruby-throated Hummingbird.  

“As fall sets in, the majority of these birds depart south of the United States, (though) some decide to stay through the winter,” McKeon says. “These overwintering birds are frequently joined by smaller numbers of hummingbirds from more western parts of the continent, and even the occasional stray or 'vagrant' from Mexico or the Caribbean Islands.  These winter visitors can make the effort of maintaining a year-round feeder worthwhile.”

McKeon also notes that other nectar feeding birds and animals will use hummingbird feeders, too.

 “Orioles, some warblers, bananaquits, moths, (and) lovely nectar-feeding bats,” he says.

What Happens If You Leave Your Hummingbird Feeder Up Too Long?

While it’s possible to attract hummingbirds year-round depending on your exact location, it’s a bit more work to maintain the feeder.

“The sugar water mixture can spoil relatively quickly given the weather,” McKeon explains. “This will stop hummingbirds from using feeders, potentially attract less desirable visitors such as ants and wasps, and can be an unpleasant eyesore-exactly the opposite from a well maintained feeder.”

Why It's Important To Follow A Schedule With Hummingbird Feeders

Simply put: Hummingbirds are creatures of habit. 

“They like knowing where the food sources are, and they keep track of what is blooming and where,” McKeon says. “Having feeders up and filled when hummingbirds first arrive in an area in spring can ensure you are 'on their map' as a known resource.”