Frequently
Asked Questions |
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Q: |
The most common misconception is that the tube feeders are ‘too small’, We hear all the time: “Jeez, I’d be filling that feeder every day…” Read this… From “Operation Ruby Throat – The Hummingbird Project” (www.rubythroat.org) | |
A: |
“...The
biggest mistake made by most novice hummingbird enthusiasts is in buying
a first feeder that is too large. It is better to start with a smaller feeder.
Filling the larger feeder and putting it out before hummingbirds have been
seen will usually result in the sugar water souring long before the feeder
can be drained by birds.the feeder can be drained by birds. It's also a
good idea to put up several smaller feeders in different locations so that
a hummingbird defending one feeder will not be able to see--or dominate--the
other feeders.” |
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Q: |
Do I need to add red dye to the nectar? | |
A: |
No, Although there is no conclusive research defining the hazards of coloring your hummingbird nectar red, studies have been done in the attractive qualities of feeders filled with red nectar versus feeders filled with clear nectar. Hummingbirds were not attracted to the red nectar any more than the clear nectar and since the natural flower nectar hummingbirds feed on in the wild is clear, why risk harming your birds by adding something unnatural. | |
Q: |
How does the hummingbird get the nectar from The Circle of Life Feeder™? | |
A: |
Hummingbirds insert the tip of their beak into the feeding port and lick the nectar out with their hollow brush-like tongues. If your feeding tubes are positioned correctly—they will drink every last drop! | |
Q: |
How does the nectar not drip out? | |
A: |
Because the tubes are small—they do not create enough pressure to force the nectar through the feeding port. Please Note—the tubes must be horizontal to the ground to prevent dripping. | |
Q: |
Why should I buy extra tubes? | |
A: |
There are several very good reasons for having extra replenishment tubes on hand. Extra tubes can be pre-filled and stored in the refrigerator for easy tube swaps. Replenishment tubes are made from glass—glass can break if dropped. Worn tubes should be replaced as necessary. | |
Q: |
My feeder looks tarnished, is that normal? | |
A: |
Copper goes though several stages as it ages and becomes “weathered”. Your feeder started out bright and polished when you bought it—it will then turn a dull rust color—finally it will begin to turn to a greenish blue color called a patina. You can keep your feeder polished if you prefer. We recommend “Bright Boy” Metal Polish. | |
Q: |
The Red Cap on my replenishment tube is very hard to remove… | |
A: |
Always run the red caps under hot water to loosen then from the glass tube. With your thumb, push the cap off the end of the tube—never twist a stuck cap—you risk breaking the glass tube in your hand. | |
Q: |
There are small patches of black mold in my replenishment tubes, why? | |
A: |
This usually happens early in the season before the hummingbirds find your feeder—change the nectar in your tubes at the first sign of mold. | |
Email
your hummingbird question to: questions@circleoflifefeeder.com |
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©
2004 Wiggum Enterprises, All Rights Reserved |
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Wiggum
Enterprises • PO Box 81132 • Phoenix, AZ 85069 |
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