Q: Should I put out insects at my hummingbird feeder?

A: No — hummingbirds are built to catch insects in motion, and they won't eat dead or stationary insects from a dish. The best thing you can do is maintain a yard with native plants and low pesticide use so live insects are abundant.

Q: Why do I see hummingbirds flying erratically near my garden?

A: They're probably hawking insects. That quick dart-and-return flight pattern is hunting behavior, not confusion or distress.

Q: I have hummingbirds but I also spray my garden for aphids. Is that a problem?

A: Yes — aphids are a significant prey item for hummingbirds. Many common garden insecticides also directly harm hummingbirds through ingestion or contact. If possible, use targeted, mechanical controls (strong water sprays, neem oil where necessary) rather than broad-spectrum insecticides.

Q: Do baby hummingbirds eat differently than adults?

A: Yes. Nestlings are fed primarily regurgitated insects by their mother during their early development. Protein is critical for growth. The mother's protein intake increases significantly during the nestling period, which is why insect availability near nesting sites is so important.

Q: Does having a hummingbird feeder help if my yard doesn't have many insects?

A: A feeder provides calories but not protein. Hummingbirds using a feeder in a low-insect environment will survive but won't thrive — especially during breeding season. The feeder is valuable, but it works best as part of a yard that also supports insect life. —

What Do Hummingbirds Eat Besides Nectar? | NectarBloom™