10 Birds That Drink Nectar From Hummingbird Feeders (With Photos)
Many birds besides hummingbirds drink nectar from feeders, including orioles, finches, woodpeckers, and warblers. These birds are attracted to the sugary solution and often visit during migration or when natural food is scarce. If you’ve noticed unexpected guests at your nectar feeder, here are 10 common birds that also enjoy a sweet sip.
Why Do Other Birds Visit Hummingbird Feeders?
While hummingbirds are the intended guests, it’s not unusual to spot other birds sampling from your nectar feeder. Sugar water offers a quick energy boost, and many birds are opportunistic—they’ll take what’s available when natural food is limited.
During migration, some birds burn a lot of energy and need fast fuel. Nectar gives them a rapid sugar hit to stay active. In dry or hot climates, even insect-eaters like warblers and woodpeckers may sip from feeders if insects or berries are scarce.
Other times, it’s just curiosity. Birds like chickadees and finches are known to explore anything new in their territory—including that bright red feeder hanging on your porch.
Common reasons birds use nectar feeders:
- Limited natural food sources (especially in summer or fall)
- High energy needs during migration
- Curiosity and learned behavior from other birds
- Easy access to sugar water in open yards or gardens
By understanding why they visit, you can make your feeders safer and more welcoming for a variety of species.
Are Hummingbird Feeders Safe for Other Birds?
Yes, hummingbird feeders are generally safe for other birds—as long as they’re properly maintained. Birds like orioles, finches, and woodpeckers can benefit from a clean source of sugar water, especially during times when natural nectar is scarce.
The key is to keep the nectar fresh and the feeder clean. Dirty feeders can grow mold or bacteria, which can harm all birds, not just hummingbirds. Cleaning your feeder every 2–3 days (even daily in hot weather) helps prevent illness.
It’s also important to use the correct nectar recipe: 1 part plain white sugar to 4 parts water. Never add honey, artificial sweeteners, or red dye—these can make birds sick.
Tips to keep nectar safe for all birds:
- Clean feeders with hot water and a brush regularly
- Avoid using red dyes or food coloring
- Replace nectar before it gets cloudy or fermenting
- Add bee guards to prevent wasp or ant problems
Keeping your feeder clean ensures it’s a safe stop for any feathered visitors—not just hummingbirds.
10 Birds That Drink Nectar From Hummingbird Feeders
While hummingbirds are built for nectar feeding, they’re not the only birds with a sweet tooth. Several other species will take advantage of hummingbird feeders—especially when food is scarce or during migration. Here are 10 birds you might catch sipping from your nectar feeder:
1. Baltimore Oriole
Bright orange and black, the Baltimore Oriole is a well-known nectar lover. They often visit hummingbird feeders in spring and early summer, especially when oranges or jelly are nearby. Their beaks are perfectly shaped to access sugar water, though they may prefer oriole feeders with wider ports.
2. House Finch
These adaptable, friendly birds often flock to feeders. While they usually eat seeds, house finches will also drink nectar—especially from feeders that leak or have open ports. You might see several gathered at once during the warmer months.
3. American Goldfinch
Although primarily seed-eaters, goldfinches are known to sample nectar occasionally. Their bright yellow coloring makes them easy to spot when they perch on or near hummingbird feeders, curious and lightweight enough not to disturb the setup.
4. Downy Woodpecker
Don’t be surprised to find this small woodpecker hanging off your feeder. Downies use their pointed beaks to poke into nectar ports and will revisit if the source is consistent. They’re common in many parts of North America and aren’t shy about feeder hopping.
5. Gila Woodpecker
Native to the American Southwest, the Gila Woodpecker is a frequent nectar thief. They’re persistent and clever, often dominating hummingbird feeders in desert areas. Their size and strong beak let them easily access even smaller ports.
6. Northern Mockingbird
These birds eat fruit and insects but won’t pass up nectar. During summer or drought, you may spot them defending a feeder like a hummingbird would. Their bold nature makes them regular visitors if they find your setup useful.
7. Chickadee
Curious and quick, chickadees sometimes try nectar—especially if your feeder drips or has exposed openings. While they don’t rely on nectar, they’re known to explore any easy food source in their territory.
8. Cape May Warbler
This warbler species has a specially adapted tongue that allows it to sip nectar efficiently. During migration, they rely on sugar water when insects are scarce, making feeders an important stopover point.
9. Yellow-Rumped Warbler
Though not as common at feeders, yellow-rumped warblers will occasionally visit during migration or in early spring. They’re more likely to drink from feeders that leak or offer wider openings.
10. Verdin
These tiny birds are common in the southwestern U.S. deserts. Verdins feed on flower nectar in the wild and aren’t shy about using hummingbird feeders when they find one, especially in hot weather.
How to Attract Nectar-Loving Birds (Besides Hummingbirds)
If you want more than just hummingbirds at your nectar feeder, a few simple changes can make your yard more inviting to other species like orioles, woodpeckers, and finches.
- Use oriole feeders with larger ports and perches
- Hang slices of oranges or offer grape jelly nearby
- Choose red, orange, and pink flowers or accents to catch their attention
- Add multiple feeders spaced apart to reduce competition
- Place feeders near shrubs or trees for cover and landing spots
- Include a water source like a shallow birdbath
Nectar-loving birds are opportunistic. The more variety you offer, the more likely they are to stop by and stay awhile.
Do These Birds Compete With Hummingbirds?
Yes,especially larger birds like orioles and woodpeckers. While hummingbirds are tiny, they’re highly territorial and often aggressive around their feeders. When other birds start visiting for nectar, it can lead to brief aerial squabbles or even feeder abandonment.
Orioles and woodpeckers may unintentionally intimidate hummingbirds just by their size. Mockingbirds are known to defend feeders from all other species. In contrast, smaller birds like finches or chickadees usually feed quietly and leave quickly.
How to reduce feeder competition:
- Hang multiple feeders in different locations
- Use different feeder styles (some with bee guards or smaller ports)
- Add fruit stations or oriole-specific feeders nearby
- Place feeders at varying heights
By spreading out your feeding options, you’ll give all birds a fair chance to enjoy the nectar—without chasing each other away.
Tips for Keeping All Birds Safe at Your Feeders
Whether it’s hummingbirds or their larger guests, keeping feeders safe and clean is essential. Dirty feeders can grow mold and bacteria that make birds sick—sometimes fatally.
Nectar safety tips:
- Change nectar every 2–3 days (daily in hot weather)
- Clean feeders with hot water and a soft brush—no soap or bleach
- Use the right sugar ratio: 1 part white sugar to 4 parts water
- Avoid red dye, honey, or artificial sweeteners
- Use bee guards to keep insects out
- Hang feeders in shade to reduce spoilage
Birds will return more often to clean, consistent feeding stations. Think of it as keeping their favorite diner spotless and open 24/7.
FAQs
What birds drink from hummingbird feeders?
Besides hummingbirds, birds like orioles, finches, woodpeckers, warblers, and even mockingbirds may visit nectar feeders, especially during migration or dry seasons.
Is it okay for other birds to drink sugar water?
Yes—if the nectar is made properly (1 part sugar to 4 parts water) and the feeder is kept clean, it’s safe for most birds.
Do other birds scare away hummingbirds?
Sometimes. Larger birds like orioles or mockingbirds can unintentionally scare off smaller hummingbirds. Offering multiple feeders in separate spots can help.
Will using an oriole feeder help?
Absolutely. Orioles prefer feeders with bigger ports and perches. Using one alongside your hummingbird feeder helps reduce competition.
Should I stop birds from using my hummingbird feeder?
Not necessarily. As long as the feeder is safe and hummingbirds still have access, it’s okay to share. But if hummingbirds stop coming, try separating the feeders.
