Hummingbird feeders can attract and nourish hummingbirds no matter where they may be hung, but there are both pros and cons whether a feeder is in the sun or the shade. Which location you choose will depend on your individual yard and hummingbird preferences.

Hummingbird Feeders in the Sun

Hanging hummingbird feeders in a bright, sunny spot may seem ideal. Such a location will ensure the feeder is colorful and sparkly and provide great views of sipping hummers, so what could be better? Understanding the pros and cons of sun-drenched hummingbird feeders can help you choose the very best location to feed your hummingbirds.

Pros...

• Eye-Catching – As sunlight reflects off the feeder, sparkles and glitters will attract hummingbirds’ attention so they will find the feeder more quickly, growing your hummingbird flock.
• Best Viewing – A well-lit hummingbird hovering or perched in the sunlight will show brilliant colors that will highlight the details of the bird for excellent photos and easier identification of each visitor.
• Flowerbed Locations – Because many nectar-rich flowers require full sunlight for the best blooms, hanging a hummingbird feeder in the sun will permit you to position the feeder near natural food sources as well.

Cons...

• Faster Spoiling – In the sunlight, nectar will heat up more quickly which will lead to faster fermentation. This means the feeder will need to be cleaned and refilled more often, and more nectar may need to be discarded.
• Feeder Damage – Depending on the feeder, sunlight may cause colored materials to fade or different feeders may warp and develop leaks as they get heated. This may mean feeders need to be replaced more often.
• Poles Required – To truly place a hummingbird feeder in full sunlight, a hanging pole will be necessary. This could be hard to sink into different types of soil to keep the pole straight, or a pole might interfere with mowing the lawn or other activities.

Hummingbird Feeders in the Shade

A shady spot can be a peaceful, relaxing place to watch hummingbirds, and provides some protection for the feeder as well as the hummers that may visit it. There are still pros and cons to this hummingbird feeder placement, however, that every birder should carefully consider before they hang their next nectar feeder.

Pros...

• Fresher Nectar – In the shade, nectar will stay cooler for longer and will not ferment quite as quickly. This means the feeder won’t need refilling as often and a larger feeder can be used for even more convenience.
• Weather Protection – When hung in a sheltered spot, a shaded feeder will have some protection from wind and rain. This can minimize leaks and waste, keeping the feeder in better shape and ensuring it can be used for many years.
• More Hanging Options – Hanging hummingbird feeders in the shade can allow you to take advantage of tree branches, gutters, awnings, arbors, and other easy spots without needing extra poles to put up a new feeder.

Cons...

• Harder Identification – In a deeply shaded spot, there won’t be as much light to highlight the birds’ colors and markings, and it can be harder to identify each hummingbird or enjoy them in all their iridescent glory.
• False Security – While a shaded feeder will stay cooler, it is easy to miss just when nectar starts to go bad and a refresh is necessary. This could cause hummingbirds to leave and seek better food sources.
• Limited Views – Depending on what hanging options are available, you may be unable to get the very best views if a feeder is hung in the shade. With sun-placed feeders, you can choose exactly where you want to watch the feeder.

Where Should You Hang Your Hummingbird Feeders?

Ultimately, both sunny and shady spots can be good places for hummingbird feeders, depending on what is available in your yard and how you want to watch your visitors. There are many factors you should consider before choosing a final hanging spot, including the feeder style and whether it may be prone to leaks, as well as its construction and whether it could fade or warp. How easy the feeder will be to hang as well as to take down again for refills and cleaning will also be a strong consideration, and of course you want to have the best views to enjoy every hummingbird that stops by for a drink.

No matter where you choose to hang your hummingbird feeder, these tiny, energetic birds will find it. Try out both sunny and shady spots to discover what locations they prefer most and what works best for you, and both you and your hummingbirds will enjoy it.