Origin

• The first documented hummingbird feeder was a bottle filled with sugared water and decorated to look like a flower. In the beginning, the purpose of the hummingbird feeder was simply to attract hummingbirds to backyards. Later on, people became interested in how to feed hummingbirds regularly and the hummingbird feeder's design was improved. Modern hummingbird feeders function similarly to old ones, but they feed hummingbirds more effectively because of their modifications.
  
  

Features

• There are many different types of hummingbird feeders, but modern feeders typically consist of a tank, base, flower and mounting bracket. The tank is the container that holds the food, and it generally comes in the shape of a bowl or a bottle. The base supports the tank and comes off when the feeder needs to be refilled. The opening for hummingbirds to eat through is the flower, named because it's often designed to look like one. Lastly, the mounting bracket hangs the feeder in a good location.
  Some features that may enhance hummingbird feeding are colors, perches and insect traps. Brightly colored hummingbird feeders will better attract hummingbirds---red is ideal. The perch provides a place for hummingbirds to rest, and an insect trap such as an ant moat or a bee guard prevents bugs from stealing food.
  
  

Mechanism

• The hummingbird feeder works when hummingbirds learn to treat it as a reliable food source. The process is very simple: hummingbirds approach the feeder, eat from it and then return to repeat this cycle. To accomplish this, hummingbird feeders must first attract hummingbirds, and then attract them repeatedly.
  Hummingbirds eat nectar, the sugary liquid produced by plants, so hummingbird bird feeders should provide something similar. Sugared water made with pure granulated sugar is a good choice. Other sugars or commercial products such as honey, Jell-O and Kool-Aid should be avoided, as they can be poisonous to hummingbirds.
  Hummingbird feeders must be easily accessible. They should be visible and placed away from distraction. Also, hummingbird feeders have to be cleaned on a regular basis to prevent food spoilage and mold growth. It is best to clean hummingbird feeders once every three days.
  Hummingbirds should return to the feeder regularly. The hummingbird feeder must always be full so that hummingbirds can depend on it for food. Hummingbirds will not return to a feeder that has nothing to offer.