As a horticulture and landscape gardening expert , I want to emphasize that it is NOT recommended to put vegetable oil on top of a hummingbird birdfeeder . There are several reasons for this , and I will explicate them in detail .

First and foremost , using oil , greases , or crude oil jelly on a hummingbird feeder can have detrimental effects on the hummingbirds themselves . These substances can easily transfer onto the hummingbird ’s wing if they come into contact with them while feeding . This can top to the hummingbird being unable to aviate or right plume its feathering , which is essential for their survival and well - being .

Furthermore , oils and greases can be harmful to the hummingbird if they by chance have them while feed . Hummingbirds have finespun digestive systems , and the uptake of these substances can stimulate serious health issues and potentially be fatal .

In gain to the potential harm to the hummingbirds , using oil or greases on a hummingbird feeder can also have minus consequences for the environment . These substance can easily foul the ambrosia root , gain it unsafe for the hummingbirds to waste . It can also have a minus encroachment on other wildlife , such as bee or butterflies , that may come into inter-group communication with the contaminated nectar .

Instead of using oils or grease , there are alternative method acting to deter pismire from progress to the hummingbird feeder . One effectual method acting is to use ant moats or barriers . These are devices that make a physical roadblock between the bird feeder and the ants , preventing them from accessing the nectar . Ant moats are typically make full with H2O , which act as a deterrent for the pismire .

Another option is to habituate ant repellent that are specifically designed for utilisation around hummingbird feeders . These repellents are typically made from born element and do not pose a terror to the hummingbird or the environs . They can be applied to the feeder or the skirt domain to create a barrier that ants will deflect .

veritable criminal maintenance and cleaning of the hummingbird feeder is also important in prevent ant infestations . Cleaning the bird feeder thoroughly and on a regular basis will help remove any residues or spills that may draw ants . Additionally , placing the bird feeder in a location that is not easy accessible to pismire , such as hanging it from a pole or using a baffle , can also help discourage them .

Using oils , soil , or petroleum jelly on a hummingbird feeder is not recommended due to the potential scathe it can make to the hummingbird and the environment . There are alternative method , such as using ant moats or repellents , as well as regular maintenance and cleaning , that can in effect discourage ant without put a risk to the hummingbirds .

Caroline Bates