The Hummingbird Feeder Hack That Gives You A Close-Up View Of Your Backyard Friends

Ever picture yourself feeding hummingbirds by hand, like some scene from a fairytale? With a handheld hummingbird feeder, you can. These feeders are small enough to fit snugly into your palm, allowing you to get a close-up view of these beautiful birds as they sip nectar right in front of you. According to a sneaky TikTok hack, you can even attach the hand feeder to your phone case and record stunning close-up videos. The result is absolutely magical, but pulling it off takes more effort than you may think. It's important to know what you're in for before you decide if a handheld hummingbird feeder is best for you. 

Handheld hummingbird feeders come in several varieties. On Amazon, you can purchase a set of four single-port feeders ($10) that are the same size as a pot of lip balm. Larger ones are also available, such as this palm-sized feeder for under $8 at Perky Pet, with three ports for multiple hummingbirds to feed at once. If you frequently have hummingbirds in your backyard, then you may have luck enticing them to your handheld feeder. However, there are a few steps you'll likely have to follow to win their cooperation.

Hand feeders allow for rare up-close access to majestic hummingbirds; however, they require patience and consistency. The obvious difference between a traditional backyard feeder and a handheld feeder is that your physical presence is required, which means knowing their feeding schedule so you can be outside at the right times. You will also have to wait patiently as they learn that it's safe to approach you. These birds are incredibly smart and can recognize humans, especially ones they associate with food.

Don't get discouraged if they don't flock to you right away. In fact, the best approach is to first introduce the feeder by placing it on a flat surface in a visible area. Once the hummingbirds are familiar with it, find a place to sit quietly nearby during their popular visiting times and gradually move closer to the feeder over a span of several days. When you are certain that you have earned their trust, hold the feeder in your hand and see what happens. Find a sitting position that allows you to stay still and steady. Once the hummingbirds are accustomed to the handheld feeder, place it on a tray and attach it to the backside of your cellphone case, near the front of the camera lens, to capture beautiful close-up video footage. 

The optimal times for using your handheld feeder will vary depending on where you live. If your region has year-round hummingbirds, they typically feed at sunrise or the late afternoon. If your yard gets plenty of shade, they may visit during the day, too. Migrating hummingbirds may still come to your yard for nourishment well into the fall. Thanks to their astounding memory, you may get the same visitors the following year. As always, remember to safely clean your hummingbird feeder and replenish the nectar every two to three days.