Hummingbird feeders offer a close-up view of these tiny, iridescent birds. As seasons change and days shorten, many hosts wonder when to take the feeder down. The timing is not a fixed date but a flexible observation based on local activity and the birds’ natural cycles. Removing the feeder at the right time supports the hummingbirds’ behavior without creating unnecessary risk.
Addressing the Migration Myth
Many feeder users worry that leaving nectar out will prevent hummingbirds from migrating south, essentially “tricking” them into staying too long. Ornithologists consistently debunk this misconception.
The primary cue for migration is the changing photoperiod—the decreasing number of daylight hours in the fall. This reduction in light triggers hormonal changes, signaling the birds to begin their journey south. The availability of a feeder simply provides a convenient, high-energy fuel source for the long flight ahead.
Keeping a feeder up benefits the birds by allowing them to build necessary fat reserves for their long journey. These tiny travelers burn energy at an extremely high rate, and a reliable nectar source is a welcome stopover before or during migration. Maintaining the feeder through the fall supports their natural cycle.
Observing the Right Time to Stop Feeding
The most practical guideline for feeder removal is the “two-week rule”: wait until you have not seen a hummingbird for two full weeks. This ensures that late-migrating individuals or stragglers have a final, reliable source of energy before they depart. These late travelers are often young birds making their first migration, trailing behind the main group.
During this waiting period, keep the nectar fresh and the feeder clean, even if visits are infrequent. While cooler temperatures slow spoilage, mold and bacteria can still develop, which is harmful to the birds. If you notice the nectar level dropping or hear buzzing sounds, hummingbirds are still relying on the station.
Once the two-week observation period passes without a sighting, you can be confident the migratory population has moved on. This observation-based timing is more accurate than relying on a specific calendar date, which varies due to weather patterns. The goal is to provide a safety net for the last birds to pass through your area.
Regional Differences in Feeder Removal
Feeder removal timing depends on geographic location, as migration patterns vary widely. In northern and inland regions, where the first hard frost arrives earlier, most migratory hummingbirds depart by late September or early October. In these colder areas, the feeder can be removed shortly after the two-week observation period concludes.
Conversely, in southern and coastal regions (Gulf Coast, Florida, Pacific Northwest), feeders may need to remain up much later, or even year-round. These milder climates often host overwintering species, such as the Anna’s Hummingbird, or provide habitat for late-season stragglers. Removal is often tied to a prolonged period of no activity, regardless of the calendar date.
For accurate local timing, consult regional birding resources, such as a state Audubon society or local eBird reports. These organizations track the arrival and departure dates of hummingbirds in your specific area. This local data helps determine if you are hosting a late migrant or a resident bird that will remain through the winter.
Cleaning and Storing Feeders for Winter
Once the decision is made to remove the feeder for the season, a thorough cleaning is necessary to prevent the growth of mold and mildew during storage. Begin by disassembling the feeder completely, separating all parts, including the base, ports, and reservoir. Discard any remaining nectar and rinse the components with hot water to remove sticky residue.
Scrub all surfaces using a bottle brush and a mild cleaning solution, such as hot water with dish soap or a solution of one part white vinegar to four parts water. Pay attention to the feeding ports and crevices where mold can accumulate. Rinse all parts meticulously to ensure no soap or vinegar residue remains.
Allow all components to air dry completely before storing them. Storing a damp feeder encourages fungus growth, which is difficult to remove later. Place the clean, dry feeder in a sealed container or bag and store it in a dry, protected area until the following spring.