Mercer Island hummingbirds need you this winter

Published 8:30 am Tuesday, November 25, 2025

By Terry Lee

Special to the Reporter

Hummingbirds have been coming to Mercer Island feeders all summer, and many of them winter-over by depending on the same feeders they visit during the rest of the year.

It is pleasurable to watch their interactions at our feeders, and their bold and energetic dispositions. Some will sit at the same feeder hole and take turns while others will be combative or even take over the feeder and chase all others away.

During winter time, hummingbirds are very dependent on feeders they know, and can starve to death in a day or less if they don’t find their familiar feeders.

If you have a feeder, consider how fragile hummers are and if you are up for it, to provide the support they need from you. Otherwise, it may be best to take your feeder down for the winter before Thanksgiving, providing time for them to find another one close by.

Good support includes keeping the feeder full, taking it in during freezing nights and putting it out at dawn the next morning, or having a heater that will keep the feeder from freezing. For extended freezing

spells, two feeders are useful for switching when one freezes during the day and can be replaced by a thawed feeder. An additional note is that their energy needs are higher during cold weather and a 3-to-1 ratio of water to sugar can be used. They also feed more frequently, so keep an eye on the feeder.

A helpful neighbor who will take care of your feeder when you travel is a good way to provide hummer support. Or if you have a dog sitter, include feeder support responsibility as well. Please help keep our hummingbirds fed, happy and alive during the upcoming cold winter days!

* Information from the Hummingbird 101 and the BCSPCA, Speaking for Animals websites.