Buzzers instead of Hummers-

[ardeekay]

Honey bees have been increasing around my feeders lately and today there was a virtual swarm. Few or no flowers, I guess, due to the drought. The birds couldn't compete w/ this and were absent. I had a can of House and Garden spray and sprayed the bees as lightly as I could. That did the trick, for now at least, and the hummingbirds are back. But I was wondering if this could cause any residual effect. Was going to wash the feeders but thought I'd be back where I started. Any thoughts??

[Nature Nut]

They make feeders that are insect proof so only the hummingbirds can drink from them. If that is not what you are currently using you can look into those. If it's the pyrethrin-based spray then there is currently no info suggesting toxicity for mammals or birds. It is toxic to insects and aquatic life however. The only two known dangers would be the loss of pollinators if you garden and the potential of certain insect species to become immune to it over time.

[Duane N]

I would wash the feeder immediately if any spray got on it....can't be good for anything. I have a problem with Wasps but the Hummingbirds deal with it.

[2slo]

Rog, the most obvious thing which springs to mind is to plant more flowers. It's a win - win situation really as these should lure the bees away from the feeders and make a nice background for bird shots in your garden

[ardeekay]

Originally Posted by Nature Nut

They make feeders that are insect proof so only the hummingbirds can drink from them. If that is not what you are currently using you can look into those. If it's the pyrethrin-based spray then there is currently no info suggesting toxicity for mammals or birds. It is toxic to insects and aquatic life however. The only two known dangers would be the loss of pollinators if you garden and the potential of certain insect species to become immune to it over time.

In all honesty, the popular feeder w/ the bee-guards wasn't being inundated as much-may have to retire my other one for the season. Will check out the label on the can.

Originally Posted by Duane N

I would wash the feeder immediately if any spray got on it....can't be good for anything. I have a problem with Wasps but the Hummingbirds deal with it.

It's being washed right now-a pretty intense storm going on.

Originally Posted by 2slo

Rog, the most obvious thing which springs to mind is to plant more flowers. It's a win - win situation really as these should lure the bees away from the feeders and make a nice background for bird shots in your garden

Will you come over and tend them-weed, water, etc.? Hee-hee. Actually I have more flowers out than most of the neighborhood-they're out front as backyard is mostly shade as I've lamented about a great deal as a poor photography area. Also the lady 3 doors down has extensive flower garden. Maybe there's not a lot of nectar in them??

[2slo]

Originally Posted by ardeekay

Will you come over and tend them-weed, water, etc.? Hee-hee. Actually I have more flowers out than most of the neighborhood-they're out front as backyard is mostly shade as I've lamented about a great deal as a poor photography area. Also the lady 3 doors down has extensive flower garden. Maybe there's not a lot of nectar in them??

Well we are in the same position as regards shade, we're surrounded by a lot of mature trees. I planted low maintenance flowering shrubs which like shady conditions (don't ask me the names - I know nothing about plants ) This brightened the garden up and even had a few birds nesting in them. Just an idea?

[ardeekay]

Originally Posted by 2slo

Well we are in the same position as regards shade, we're surrounded by a lot of mature trees. I planted low maintenance flowering shrubs which like shady conditions (don't ask me the names - I know nothing about plants ) This brightened the garden up and even had a few birds nesting in them. Just an idea?

Thanks, Mark. I do plan on planting some Beebalm next spring-just have to be smart on its location.

[ardeekay]

Originally Posted by patrickwilson86

When you go out for birding you should be calm and quiet. Don't make loud noises and try to avoid making any noise. Don't talk loud and watch your steps so the dry branch woudn't crack under your feet. Don't run towards birds, you will scare them and it is very unlikely to get any shots at all. However if you whistle some melody you may even attract some birds. Don't wear too bright or contrasty clothes. Camouflage is not nessesary, but your outfit should be of natural, not very bright colors.

Not sure what your reply has to do w/ bees marauding my feeder but OK. As an update, the one spray w/ House & Garden bug spray did the trick. Now I just have the occassional bee buzzing around which is "normal" and the hummers can handle that. Maybe the queen did take up residence there?!? Anyway, all is well.