We Found A HummViewer Hummingbird Feeder Dupe (But Does It Work?)

If you've ever wanted to get as close as possible to hummingbirds, the HummViewer is an option to consider. The device consists of a wearable mask that has flower feeder attachments, similar to those you might find on a traditional nectar hummingbird feeder. According to the makers of the original HummViewer, the feeder mask is no longer available on third-party sites, but there are counterfeit versions being sold on Amazon. There is one such copycat product on Amazon that is less than half of the cost of the original HummViewer, but it does not appear to have any guarantee in terms of efficacy or safety compared with the name-brand product.

Copycat HummViewer products are advertised as having some of the same benefits as the original product. However, customers have mixed reviews of the copycat version. While some people state the mask is comfortable and has attracted some hummingbirds, others have left 3 and 1-star reviews without any explanation. Furthermore, the product pictures have been photoshopped, some of which do not showcase actual hummingbirds. It's important to bear these facts in mind if you're thinking about buying a cheaper version of the HummViewer.

The only way to guarantee efficacy of the product and the safety of both you and the hummingbirds is to invest in the name-brand feeder mask. The company has a website with tips and videos, as well as a contact page if you need help. On top of this, customer reviews of the HummViewer also note the product does indeed work, and that the company helps with any questions or concerns. 

Also, wearing a feeder mask isn't the only way you can view hummingbirds up close. You can still increase the likelihood of hummingbird encounters by implementing measures to attract hummingbirds to your garden or yard. In particular, you should consider placing native plants in your yard with flower colors that hummingbirds are naturally drawn to, such as pink, orange, and yellow. A nectar-containing feeder and a source of water can also entice hummingbirds to stop by. For close encounters, consider placing a feeder near your window, or hanging a basket of flowers, such as beebalm. Just be sure there is 3 feet of space between these items and your windows, and that you place decals on the glass as well. These can help prevent the birds from accidentally flying into windows. While not as up-close as a feeder mask, these methods are tried-and-true and a little less expensive.