Bee-Proofing A Hummingbird Feeder

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  • เผยแพร่เมื่อ 26 ส.ค. 2024
  • Wasp/Bee/Flying Insect--Proofing A Hummingbird Feeder. I found that all sorts of bees (yellow jackets/wasps, honey bees, etc) were taking over these feeders, so I came up with a simple solution to keep the bees out.

ความคิดเห็น • 250

  • @dougiequick1
    @dougiequick1 6 ปีที่แล้ว +24

    I had to remove all my feeders last year on account of those greedy SOBs (sons of bees) this year gonna try one cup sugar in FIVE cups water which hummingbird society claims will rectify the problem ...search for their website for more tips!

    • @TerrapinCreations666
      @TerrapinCreations666  6 ปีที่แล้ว +5

      That's very interesting, so basically the water is sweet enough for the humming birds but not so sweet that it attracts the wasps and such. I'll have to try that for sure!

    • @rbsamar
      @rbsamar 5 ปีที่แล้ว +5

      They will have to work hard to get the food they need keep it 1/4 only

    • @oliviamowry3868
      @oliviamowry3868 5 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      Starting out I did the same water/sugar ratio of 4:1. Absolutely no problem. I was at LOWES and saw bird feeder food for the birds with the same 4:1 ratio that had nutrients (calcium for harder eggs, Vit A&E, fat, but also frutcose, glucose, sucrose that attracted the bees. I felt like I was living near a bee hive. Bee guards were no help. Bees stayed longer; 2 & 3 at the same time at the same feeder hole. I water down the new food with plain water, and the bees still came, but the birds did not seem frightened and both birds and bees 'dined' together.... hence, the story of the Birds and the Bees (:0)

    • @BarbaraAnne51
      @BarbaraAnne51 4 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      Olivia Mowry even the clear food you can buy at Lowes isn’t any good for the hummingbirds.

    • @Petrov3434
      @Petrov3434 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      We all love bees...

  • @jpan7071
    @jpan7071 2 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    Now, if only these hummingbird feeder manufacturers were as clever as you are, sir. If only.

  • @dianneadams3726
    @dianneadams3726 8 ปีที่แล้ว +9

    I just came upon this accidentally, but found good info. I'm sorry I don't have time to read all the posts right now, and if someone has already suggested the following, please excuse my repetitiveness. I was thinking that tulle (the netting used for bridal veils, tutus, crafts etc) would work. You could cut a circle the size of the inside bottom of the feeder, cut a circle out of the center to create a collar to go around the whole feeder and, glue it down all at once rather than all the individual holes. The tulle comes in different sizes, the bridal veil type is a very much finer weave and you'll find some almost as large as some of the bags mentioned here. Of course you would probably have to go to the store to buy this rather than using the bag you may already have. Thank you, Bill for such a wonderful idea! Always looking for a way to keep the little fellas safe!

  • @connectionoflivesandinterests
    @connectionoflivesandinterests 3 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    *Agree.... Nothing better than E-6000. I do see more & more sharing about the nettings to keep bees out. There's even ways to keep them from getting the drippings. I believe....it's tea tree oil or something like that. I can't remember without looking it up. Great share. 😁😁😁* Sharon in SC

  • @Krtwells
    @Krtwells 8 ปีที่แล้ว +18

    Oh my goodness Bill Tracy! You posted a wonderful solution to keep nectar loving critters out of our humming bird feeders, and get "stung" with criticism!! Thanks for "bee"ing so helpful!

  • @toddprice1541
    @toddprice1541 9 ปีที่แล้ว +15

    Mr. Tracy, I just want to thank you from the bottom of my heart for posting this simple fix. Our feeders have been taken over by the bees and yellow jackets and the poor hummers just kept getting driven off. I watched the bees drain 32 oz. of water in one 24 hour period - it was fascinating but frustrating to watch. Thank you again and God Bless You!

    • @jonhohensee3258
      @jonhohensee3258 8 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      You put JUST water in your feeder?

    • @jonhohensee3258
      @jonhohensee3258 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@yanetcampos6060 - litteraly???

    • @jonhohensee3258
      @jonhohensee3258 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@yanetcampos6060 - Literaly? Try finding that word in a dictionary.

    • @saulcamp8842
      @saulcamp8842 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@jonhohensee3258 do you mean "Literally"?

    • @jonhohensee3258
      @jonhohensee3258 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@saulcamp8842 - What the heck are you talking about?

  • @frankyvee1
    @frankyvee1 3 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    I would recommend before you buy a feeder make sure it is bee and ant-proof. For the ant proof, they will have a small mote at the top where you can add water. You can also make one using a plastic bottle top. For bee proof, they will have a very small opening where only the hummingbird beak will fit. But if you already have one that is not bee-proof I would say this would work fine. The only thing I would check is if the glue you use is food-safe. In this case, E-6000 glue is food safe once it dries so it's a good choice of glue to use. Thanks for taking the time to share your video.

    • @TerrapinCreations666
      @TerrapinCreations666  3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Yes! They have been improving these feeders over the years where you no longer need to modify them at all. It’s great!

    • @frankyvee1
      @frankyvee1 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@TerrapinCreations666 Yes, I have this same feeder but with slits instead of holes.

  • @judysweat4806
    @judysweat4806 3 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    I went to the dollar store and got some shower scrubbies. Cut the tie off and then cut pieces of the netting to cover holes --keeping them covered is a bear! We tried hot glue, electric tape, and finally a combination of hot glue covered with strips of duct tape. Love watching the bees struggle to get in--hoping they will go away after a few days and the hummingbirds will be safe to eat

  • @1savdsoul439
    @1savdsoul439 4 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    My hubby bought a beautiful feeder for our humming birds but it too lacked deterrents required to keep the insects out. Because of your video (thank you so so much!!!!) and your idea to use a mesh type material, I used tulle (pronounced tool) cut into strips and tied around (pulled taught) the outside the feeder, covering the holes. Its cheap and can be found at Walmart in the sewing dept, check the remnants for a steal. Its popular around the holidays. Tulle is a mesh fabric used to add fullness to gowns, decorate wreaths and make bath scrubbies. I also rub mint, cinnamon leaf and eucalyptus oils on the hanger they hang from. Humming birds have a weak sense of smell but insects detest mint, cinnamon and eucalyptus. These oils can be mixed with witch hazel to create a refreshing insect deterrent that works great! Blessings!

    • @gailwilliams5278
      @gailwilliams5278 ปีที่แล้ว

      Bees love to feed on the mint flowers in my mint bed - also little wasps. So I’m doubtful about using mint as a repellent.

    • @1savdsoul439
      @1savdsoul439 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@gailwilliams5278 Sadly I havnt seen a bee. We have tons of wasps that will sting hummingbirds. The wasps do seem deterred by the oils.

  • @Petrov3434
    @Petrov3434 4 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    Well - Bill Tracy you have persuaded me. I will try your method. Many thanks for your kind efforts
    I searched for glue toxicity -- apparently it is NOT when dried despite hysterical warnings on Internet by self-promoted "experts"
    Of course, a thorough washing before refilling is also critical so that there is no sugar on feeder

    • @Gigi-uy3wt
      @Gigi-uy3wt 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      I thank you for your remedy
      As it sparked my creativity when I couldn't find onion mesh.
      I found a mesh bag from the dollar store and cut out a large enuf section to cover the feeder holes altogether...the secured it at the bottom with a small rubber band.
      Thanks again

  • @la196
    @la196 7 ปีที่แล้ว +7

    They also sell little inserts to snap into each hole that will allow the beak of a hummer but way too small for a bee to enter the feeder. Unfortunately with all those yellow jackets swarming the feeder, the hummers will find food elsewhere. They don't get along to well and the hummers must eat too often to wait around for the bees to leave. I've observed my hummers dancing around with even one bee and get frustrated and leave. But still a good idea as long as the adhesive isn't seeping into the nectar. Hummers systems are delicate.

  • @uber2tuber
    @uber2tuber 3 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    Awesome Bill!! Thank you. The bees absolutely took over my Perky Pet and my First Natures as well! I just took the Perky Pet (large glass feeder) down and there had to be a hundred or so bees inside it and around it. Also brought the First Nature one in. I'm going to use window screen, that's all I have... it's nylon and has fairly wide openings so I think it will work. This is awesome. :)

  • @dttomsen971
    @dttomsen971 8 ปีที่แล้ว +42

    Bees are like ants. They have scouts looking for food. Once they find your feeder they tell the rest in the hive. Conversly, if a few bees report back the food is gone, the rest of the bees will look elswhere.
    The solution is simple. Wait until at night when the bees are gone and remove the feeder for 2-3 days. When you put it back the bees will be gone. They only go where the hive tells them to.Will a random scout find it again? Possibley, but they don't 'remember' where food used to be so it's a random process.I went a whole season with only getting swarmed once.Try it.Oh, the hummingdirds are a tad smarter, they will return the same day you put it out.

    • @CindyPDX
      @CindyPDX 8 ปีที่แล้ว +7

      Excellent advice! I live in Portland, Oregon.. we have Anna's hummingbirds all year around. It is only around this time of year, in HOT August when the honey bees start swarming my hummer feeders just when the Rufous hummers are migrating back through our area again. The only thing I can do this time of year is hiding the hummer feeders until dusk when the bees are back to their hive, then I hang them back up. In mid- morning I hide them again. Breaks my heart to see hummers come to the known feeders areas not to find them.. but they seem to come back. I usually have the feeders up all year around since we have resident Anna's hummingbirds here all year around. They really love them in the deep of winter months too.. helps them to survive.

    • @gunnyoneshot69
      @gunnyoneshot69 5 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      That is the same thing that i was thinking. The other possibility is to put a 'DECOY' feeder in another location, and just a bit farther away. Once the Bee's get used to this they won't come back for quite awhile.

    • @fredbearfazbear3328
      @fredbearfazbear3328 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Yeah crazy right

    • @wlcwalshlifecounseling4581
      @wlcwalshlifecounseling4581 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Try that. Three months later, I gave up. I guess it just depends on the area. I live in the desert so perhaps the bees are desperate here!

  • @pameladunn8955
    @pameladunn8955 6 ปีที่แล้ว +17

    I had a simpler thought. I took the garlic bag which is fine net, then slid it over the bottom of the feeder. No glue, no cutting, easy to wash and free to replace.

    • @troismals
      @troismals 6 ปีที่แล้ว +12

      Pamela Dunn can you post a picture or video?

    • @Kate98755
      @Kate98755 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      thats what i was thinking, this is too toxic

  • @ladywolf7331
    @ladywolf7331 8 ปีที่แล้ว +13

    I used aquarium air line hose. It works great. Just cut the line in about 3/4 inch pieces and put in the feeder hole. Easy , inexpensive and fast.

    • @TerrapinCreations666
      @TerrapinCreations666  8 ปีที่แล้ว +5

      That's a fantastic idea! I may steal that idea and make a video! I'll be sure to credit you!

    • @ladywolf7331
      @ladywolf7331 8 ปีที่แล้ว +6

      You are more than welcome to use my idea. I need to correct the length of the line. The length should be between 1/4 and 1/2 inches. It is easier to put the line in the feeder hole if you don't cut the line into pieces. What I did was to put the line in the hole of the feeder first then cut the line from the feeder hole. Don't push the line to far down into the feeder hole. I first tried to use a straw cut in half then doubled over and put it in the hole but it was not tight enough to keep the bees and wasps out, so I finally came up with the air line. I hope this helps.

    • @pamelamccusker4441
      @pamelamccusker4441 7 ปีที่แล้ว +7

      could you by chance show a picture of that??? I suffer from paper ring tailed hornets who fly right after the poor humming birds and chase them away.. thanks to all including Bill Tracy

  • @blakehauge33
    @blakehauge33 6 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    I have 6 feeders. Used to have 10. I found that many of those fancy-artsy feeders are a waste of money. The simple hourglass shape with the four hole flower ones are best. My neighbors used the one you are showing. I won't buy it because of the bee/wasp problem. I like my little yellow screen covers on my feeders. Everyone in the neighborhood has gone to the type of feeder I use.

    • @bernardkung7306
      @bernardkung7306 10 หลายเดือนก่อน

      I find those to be much too prone to dripping (especially when temperatures change much) which attracts bees and wasps and ants. If there's any dripping/leaking to speak of, the bees and wasps just go around the ball-cage gratings, rather than through them.

  • @rosemarypena5443
    @rosemarypena5443 9 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    This was the best advice in handling the problem I had and you were right on the money regarding the time of having the bees disappear. Thanks so much for the instructions that were very easy to do.

  • @rosalielindholm6790
    @rosalielindholm6790 5 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    Great idea! So many comments that I cannot read them all, so if I am repeating someone else, I apologise. SIMPLIFY: Use the part of the feeder with the holes in it for a template to cut a circle of net. Appy the glue to the inside of the ring; tap the whole circle of net in at one time. I am so clumsy that if I tried to do each hole individually, I'd have to cut out 30 little bitty pieces of netting to have enough to cover 10 holes...I would drop every other one, at least, and not be able to find it. LOL! Thanks!

  • @joansnow4013
    @joansnow4013 5 ปีที่แล้ว +13

    The things we do for those little birdies

  • @timcastle165
    @timcastle165 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I just came across your video. I have the same type of feeder (easy to keep clean) and I have the same bee problem! What an awesome fix, thanks!!

  • @elainemarshall7834
    @elainemarshall7834 9 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Very clever ideas with the mesh and the paperclip applicator for the glue!
    Thanx for the post!!!

  • @christinacunningham7351
    @christinacunningham7351 ปีที่แล้ว

    Thank you for the idea! We used a small web fly swatter to cover the holes.

  • @Harphoney
    @Harphoney 5 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Excellent idea, I will be doing this as well. Wasps tend to be the problem as well, this should keep the little buzzards away. I’m also going to make moats for the tops of the feeders for the ants. Great video!

  • @kathybastian9970
    @kathybastian9970 6 ปีที่แล้ว +17

    I have this exact feeder - but I just looked at the manufacturer's site for the E6000 adhesive and it is NOT to be used for anything that comes in contact with food/water or animals. I love the idea but would not subject my hummers to this chemical...I'll find another way to keep the yellow jackets out.

    • @wlcwalshlifecounseling4581
      @wlcwalshlifecounseling4581 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      After it’s dried and sat in the sun... it’s probably fine hun. (Keep in mind, your birdfeeder, could’ve been made in China) But if you’re concerned, carefully use silicone that is used for fish aquariums. Or or you can make nontoxic glue yourself, out of cornstarch, Google the recipe. It’s a thing!

  • @lyndam8391
    @lyndam8391 4 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    It works!! The satisfaction of watching them try every hole, with no success, then fly off... is indescribable. Haha! Thanks!

  • @donfreeman686
    @donfreeman686 4 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    Fill the holes completely with silicone of the type used for fish aquariums. Then drill new holes in between the old ones using a small drill bit that suits the birds.

  • @sjr7822
    @sjr7822 7 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    I encourage bees, as I have fruit trees, but, Bees need a lot of water, so I have shallow containers with moss, wood bark, etc, filled with clean water. If bees get their wings in water they can't lift them up to get out of the water, so they need debris in the container as an aid. I hope people will think of the bees when there is less rain and provide for the much needed water. As for the feeders, after filling, I wipe the container with vinegar water. Same problem with bees in August . I just set up feeders in shady locations and change the food, and clean the feeders often. I'll also try that hint!

  • @BuryTV1
    @BuryTV1 11 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    Great idea. I found that brushing olive oil on the outside of the feeder it removed the bee problem for me. The bees can't grip to fees and the birds do not get oil on their wings.

  • @nancy3848
    @nancy3848 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    My feeders have the guards already built in but the bees, wasps, yellow jackets, and hornets still hover
    around them. Sometimes I see them chase the hummers away. I tried rubbing vegetable oil around the openings so when the bees etc try to land they slip right off. It doesn’t stop the hummers because they hover over the openings. It seems to lessen the amt. of the bees et al after awhile.

  • @sandypandy67
    @sandypandy67 5 ปีที่แล้ว +7

    Maybe put the mesh on the outside of the feeder instead of inside, so the glue does not leach into the nectar.

    • @TerrapinCreations666
      @TerrapinCreations666  5 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Luckily the nectar level never gets that high up. It would leak out the sides first anyway. Plus the glue is harmless once cured.

  • @spoildchild
    @spoildchild 6 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    Thank you much! I just went outside to find my humming bird feeder covered with bees. Going to try this tomorrow. :)

    • @djlee3
      @djlee3 6 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      It works. Tried it a couple of days ago and this is one of those rare suggestions that work as advertised !!!

  • @marymagness7467
    @marymagness7467 6 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    This is a great idea!!! Thank you for sharing this with us. Enjoy your hummingbirds. 🌞

  • @hummingbirdlady11
    @hummingbirdlady11 11 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    This is a smart solution....especially making sure the mesh made an X over the holes. How has it worked this past year?
    I have called First Nature customer service previously to say that bees etc. can get in these large oval holes...and she sort of did not believe me...so I said look on youtube because there are several videos showing them going right in. LOL

  • @scott1713
    @scott1713 4 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Nice idea. Good job, thanks for posting

  • @kathyglass1029
    @kathyglass1029 10 ปีที่แล้ว +24

    good idea but I'd worry about the toxicity of the glue. I would have just put larger pieces of the mesh in between the plastic parts. Then it will also be easier to clean it, too.

    • @TerrapinCreations666
      @TerrapinCreations666  10 ปีที่แล้ว +7

      The glue is non-toxic once it's cured, plus there are no parts to put mesh between at all.

    • @kathyglass1029
      @kathyglass1029 10 ปีที่แล้ว +6

      Bill Tracy
      Oh, good, Bill! Thank you for letting me know that!

  • @petem6503
    @petem6503 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    An alternative that works for me: instead of 4:1 water:sugar, dilute the mix. Somewhere between 4.5:1 and 5:1, the bees stop coming, but the hummers still show up.

  • @barbarakramsdell28
    @barbarakramsdell28 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Wonderful idea and will try for next season! Thanks! I also use a piece of plastic wrap inside my metal feeders to keep the rush from contaminating the liquid! Just an added tip!

    • @madb9422
      @madb9422 ปีที่แล้ว

      Thanks, but what do you mean regarding the "rush" from contaminating it?

  • @tulsarobgee5016
    @tulsarobgee5016 10 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    Oh ya!! American ingenuity!! Think outside the box and reuse. Nice job Bill.

  • @mikeflanagan2189
    @mikeflanagan2189 4 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    That style of feeder is notorious for trapping Hummingbird feet in the narrow gap at the end of the perches.

    • @TerrapinCreations666
      @TerrapinCreations666  4 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      It hasn't happened yet. Over 10 years now.

    • @madb9422
      @madb9422 ปีที่แล้ว

      I've never had any hummingbird feet get stuck in or on any feeders like this. It makes it easier for the hummingbirds to rest while feeding, utilizing no energy, which they need a lot of, to fly.

  • @robinwilson-sauls9891
    @robinwilson-sauls9891 6 ปีที่แล้ว

    Best help! You answered directly all the questions I've search the internet for! Thanks!!!!

  • @lindameek6791
    @lindameek6791 7 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    great idea! Just a thought for applying the glue - if you have a disposable syringe (minus needle) you can suction some of the adhesive, and then apply around the feeding holes.

  • @kathysmith9420
    @kathysmith9420 8 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    I think you could double the netting in different directions to make the holes even smaller for the nasty stingers...

    • @TerrapinCreations666
      @TerrapinCreations666  8 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      True, but I would be afraid it would inhibit the humming bird's beaks getting through as well.

  • @daniellegullickson5928
    @daniellegullickson5928 ปีที่แล้ว

    Ty,.am anxious to try.

  • @cherylwyant3113
    @cherylwyant3113 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Good idea very clever. It's been hard to fill the feeders as the bees are inside.

  • @kendonnelly3248
    @kendonnelly3248 7 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    Once these insects, ( so i don't get reprimanded for that lol) find a source of food they will ALWAYS come back. they release pheromones. . A trick is to do like the video says. Keep holes small. I take mine down frequently and clean them. i wash then rub alcohol and rinse well. . Also relocating them to different spots confuses them. Sounds odd but i tested that and It works.

  • @maryannboehm
    @maryannboehm 7 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Brilliant idea!!! I also like the one using aquarium air hose!

  • @craftylady4528
    @craftylady4528 8 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    You are so smart. We have that same problem with bees. Thank You we are going to try that.

    • @TerrapinCreations666
      @TerrapinCreations666  8 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Thanks!

    • @rorymcyt
      @rorymcyt 7 ปีที่แล้ว

      really appreciate it, Bill ! Great idea. I have the same problem as well, will use your ingeniously simple solution !

  • @lottietunes3541
    @lottietunes3541 8 ปีที่แล้ว

    Thanks Much for the tip and for the demonstration. This is something I can do without too much added expense. Just wish I had a shadier spot for my feeder. I get sunlight from dawn until about 11:30 AM on my backyard.

  • @TerrapinCreations666
    @TerrapinCreations666  11 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    It's worked very well to keep out the bees for sure - thanks!

  • @sunnydayo6847
    @sunnydayo6847 4 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    manufacturer's site for the E6000 adhesive said it is NOT to be used for anything that comes in contact with food/water or animals

  • @WillN2Go1
    @WillN2Go1 9 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Thanks-good idea. (I've got killer bees-very aggressive.) I've been trying to make smaller holes with blue masking tape (doesn't stick very well) having some success! I like your screen idea. I might try a large piece on the outside covering all the holes. Hummers eventually figure it out.
    btw Petroleum jelly doesn't bother bees at all. It makes no sense that no one makes a hummingbird feeder that is already bee proof. I'm also curious why they make hummingbird feeders with such large holes and in red and yellow colors--which bees are attracted to. Hummingbirds like blue flowers which bees apparently don't see very well.

    • @TerrapinCreations666
      @TerrapinCreations666  9 ปีที่แล้ว +5

      Very good points. I should invent a blue bee proof hummingbird feeder, lol

  • @tenahogan7498
    @tenahogan7498 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    It worked for me and no more bees!

  • @WillN2Go1
    @WillN2Go1 9 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    I hot glued short pieces of drinking straw to the openings in my feeders--cut down on 80% of the bees (their hive is 40 feet away). I slit the straw pieces and squeeze them tighter, to make approx 1/8" openings. Also found that the foam ear bud tips squeeze fit into the 'blossoms' of one of the feeders (rubber ones not so much) Hot glue is messy and not a permanent solution. Hummers are smarter than bees. Bees seem to be after drips from the hummers.

    • @TerrapinCreations666
      @TerrapinCreations666  9 ปีที่แล้ว

      With the straw, do you have some of the straw sticking out outside, or inside? I think if you left some straw sticking out that would help even more, if that's not what you did.

  • @WillN2Go1
    @WillN2Go1 9 ปีที่แล้ว

    Outside. It's hard fitting on 'tubing' over an existing hole. messy hot glue. I also found that heat shrinking tubing over the straw can make a tiny hole. A new feeder arrived today--like yours except with yellow flowers. The holes are small and keep the bees out. But they're still around licking up drips. There are three levels of bee-problem 1. holes big enough they can stick their heads into-- they feed themselves from the supply. 2. Smaller holes-bees can only feed on hummingbird drips and 3. No bee access at all. #2 is good enough.

  • @maureenmurphy-dyson3895
    @maureenmurphy-dyson3895 7 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Thanks Bill! Great idea!

  • @TerrapinCreations666
    @TerrapinCreations666  11 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    Great idea! How long does it last?

  • @blevinsme1
    @blevinsme1 9 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    question - i know you said this dries non-toxic, but does that include hummers and bees or just people? All sites I read say they are super sensitive and not to use any chemicals or oils, etc.

    • @TerrapinCreations666
      @TerrapinCreations666  9 ปีที่แล้ว

      Mary Blevins I can't really be sure, but so far the hummingbirds seem to be even more numerous around here. It can't be much worse than the cheap plastics that the feeder is made from to begin with. Plus where the glue is never touches the water much, or at least it's not submerged in it at any time. It's up away from the sugar water.

    • @mirablumberg5248
      @mirablumberg5248 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      I have a hard time believing this is a good idea. If hummingbirds can’t handle red dyes because of their extremely sensitive systems, I don’t see how they can handle this glue! Don’t think it’s a good idea.

  • @coeneschamaun1735
    @coeneschamaun1735 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Do even the cheaper feeders come apart? I have "forced" some plastic ones to separate, and they do snap back together, but usually then they leak. I did find a feeder that is part metal, part plastic, that comes apart.

  • @Shoetiefly
    @Shoetiefly 10 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I have this feeder and like it cause it is easy to clean. I like your idea of mesh except that it might be hard to clean. I'm going to make a removable mesh screen fitting on top of the holes. I have 6 beehives within 100' so it will be a good test. Wasps are worse for me cause Hummers fear them. I'll let you know.

    • @troismals
      @troismals 6 ปีที่แล้ว

      Shoetiefly Any luck?

  • @nyarlathotep74
    @nyarlathotep74 8 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    Damn man, patent and produce these, you'll make a ton!

  • @kenstearman
    @kenstearman 8 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    Thank you! I have exactly the same type of feeder. I also happen to have a red onion bag and I'm going to do the same thing that you've done with my own feeders. Many times yellow jackets get into the feeder and die. I've opened some feeders with dozens of dead yellow jackets. I would like to ask where did you purchase the glue that you bought. I've never seen it at Lowe's or Home Depot. I might also add that there is an extremely effective trap on the market called the W-H-Y trap and it is catching dozens maybe hundreds of yellow jackets around our front yard. Thanks again for the great idea.

    • @TerrapinCreations666
      @TerrapinCreations666  8 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      It's E-6000 and I think you can get it in Lowes or Home Depot. I got mine at AC Moore which is a crafts store.

    • @kenstearman
      @kenstearman 8 ปีที่แล้ว

      +Bill Tracy we have an AC Moore nearby. I'm going to get it there. I haven't seen it at HD or Lowe's. Thanks, Bill.

    • @lyndakallen96
      @lyndakallen96 7 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      Amazon has E6000 glue.

  • @Birdsie39
    @Birdsie39 10 ปีที่แล้ว

    What a great idea--and thank you for the detailed demo. You are very handy! I will have to try it--I have the exact same feeder. Thank you.

  • @theresters1
    @theresters1 7 ปีที่แล้ว +8

    WHERE ARE THE HUMMERS? WERE THEY ABLE TO SUCCESSFULLY FEED THRU THE MESH??

    • @TerrapinCreations666
      @TerrapinCreations666  7 ปีที่แล้ว

      Yes they were - thanks.

    • @NubianP6
      @NubianP6 7 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      WOODY RESTER yup, I really wanted to see that too.

    • @anidiotnamedbug8960
      @anidiotnamedbug8960 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      WOODY RESTER Jeez chill with the caps

  • @aprill8807
    @aprill8807 5 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Will the mesh come off after numerous washing?

  • @Imjetta7
    @Imjetta7 4 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    GENIUS!! Thank you!

  • @quasimotter
    @quasimotter 5 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Here is what might not be a solution. This is not a fix for bees as such. If your perps are wasps or yellow jackets, that is, members of this tribe that eat meat as well as nectar, this might work. I discovered it on fishing/ camping wilderness trips where we were plagued by yellow jackets. Open a can of soda, set it down and before you take the nest sip, check, there would be stinging critters lapping at the mouth hole.
    They would get into everything. Cleaning and preparing the fish was a battle. That's what gave me the idea. We would catch a few "trash fish," (Not game fish) Using fishing line, hang the fish from a bush about a foot--18" off the ground, at the outside edges of camp. Several of these. Under the fish a container of water. (my shaving basin, the dish pan, the soup dish) The bees discovered the bait. Eat themselves full and fall into the water. There were still a few who came into camp but these we could handle.
    Would something similar work for honey bees? Without the drowning pan. Like folded newspaper soaked with a sugar water solution (more concentrated than the bird feeder?) It spread so a lot of them could get at it. Some distance away from the feeder.
    Maybe that's ridiculous? Just a thought.

    • @TerrapinCreations666
      @TerrapinCreations666  5 ปีที่แล้ว

      That's sounds great! I just have a problem with wasps / yellow jackets. No problems with honey bees really.

    • @quasimotter
      @quasimotter 5 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@TerrapinCreations666 Bill, Glad to give some hope.

  • @delilahjarvis5850
    @delilahjarvis5850 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Isn't the glue harmful to hummingbirds?

  • @KARMENR818
    @KARMENR818 9 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Great because bees always finished the nectar I'm going to do this soon

  • @missfloflowers
    @missfloflowers 6 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    thank you for your great solution. Do you have a solution for and ant guard?

  • @maureendixon6833
    @maureendixon6833 8 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    thanks for videoing the how to. gonna try it!

  • @lyndakallen96
    @lyndakallen96 7 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Thank you so much. I will try it for sure.

  • @jershaus
    @jershaus 5 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    I had this problem in ca and i sprayed pam on it. No more bees

    • @PJ_the_tortie
      @PJ_the_tortie 5 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      My husband has bee hives so I have lots of bees.
      This works for me as well.

    • @jeanbeanofthewoods6258
      @jeanbeanofthewoods6258 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      Please don’t put any kind of oil on or near hummingbird feeders. This is from hummingbird-guide.com. While you mean well, it can be detrimental to your little feathered friends. This part of the article was for stopping ants coming down the hanging wire, but the information would certainly apply to the feeder itself. You may have no more bees, but you may also have no more hummingbirds if they touch it.
      “Some people put a light coating of vegetable oil or petroleum jelly on the hook, chain, or string that hangs hummingbird feeders. Ornithologists have warned that this is a bad practice because hummingbirds are fantastic flyers and this could impair their flight. They often bump into the hook, chain, string or feeder when coming to feed and during territorial fights. This can be disastrous for hummingbirds when they are coated with petroleum jelly or vegetable oil.
      Many people don’t realize that hummingbirds have special flight. This flight ability is essential to the survival of a hummingbird. They need to keep their feathers extra clean and light at all times. We all want to help the hummingbirds not harm them.
      Speed is an essential survival skill for hummingbirds. When they zip past us, their wings are moving so fast that they become a blur to our eyes. Nature always has its reasons.
      In the case of the hummingbird, this super-fast flight enables these tiny creatures to escape from predators. As they hover at our feeders and flowers, we can witness the quick pace of their wings. So it is essential for hummingbirds to keep their wings clean from any debris especially oil or similar substances that can weigh them down.
      They do preen (clean) their feathers constantly all day long. So an added danger is that the hummingbirds will ingest some of the toxic oil.”

  • @abigalebuss5277
    @abigalebuss5277 6 ปีที่แล้ว

    I bought one that is supposedly bee proof. It uses mesh, but it doesn't work.
    Maybe I will take your idea and see if I can add more mesh to it. Thanks for the idea anyway.

  • @lyndamaewilson3453
    @lyndamaewilson3453 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Try wiping the holes wi5h Tea Tree oil. Bees don't like the smell.

  • @nancykusler2880
    @nancykusler2880 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Thanks so much. This is freaking great. Going to get on this right away.

  • @gayleeldert754
    @gayleeldert754 6 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    I just use small amount of peppermint extract spread with my finger all around the holes, no bees, wasps et c does not hurt hummers

  • @sandysailer
    @sandysailer 8 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    I'm going to try this. Question ... did the yellow jackets stay away permanently after awhile? How long did it take?

  • @Kingfelipethe1st
    @Kingfelipethe1st 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    I have one and both bees and wasp like it but the bees can't find it usually but I found out put it in the yard you can get little wasp bee gang wars going on and it really funny

  • @BuryTV1
    @BuryTV1 11 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I brush oil on it at every feeding because I clean the feeder then too. It's still a little slippery after a cleaning but I want to be sure the bees stay away. I also read petroleum jelly works too but that it is gets on the birds wings it will prevent them from flying so I decided to stay with olive oil. I have more control with it.

  • @lori714
    @lori714 4 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    This is a great idea. My biggest problem is leakage from my feeders. I have one just like this and it leaks almost all of the nectar out. Any ideas on how to fix this problem?

    • @TerrapinCreations666
      @TerrapinCreations666  4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Maybe a new feeder? I’d have to see it.

    • @RobertMcDermott
      @RobertMcDermott 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      I had leakage problems too. Bought new feeders, same problem. Turned out that the cold nectar from the refrig. would expand in the warm weather (Worse in the sun ) & make the feeders drip all over. That brought on the bees too. Keep feeders in the shade. And let the nectar come to room temp. before turning over.

    • @madb9422
      @madb9422 ปีที่แล้ว

      The yellow jackets haven't cared if the feeders are in the shade. I've even painted the yellow flowers red, as suggested by various people online. Supposedly bees, wasps & yellow jackets are drawn to yellow. They didn't care. I've moved my feeders. Those yellowjackets find them within a short time. I've done the 5 to 1 ratio of water to sugar. They didn't care. They still came, & are still coming. I'll try the mesh today. Thanks.

    • @madb9422
      @madb9422 ปีที่แล้ว

      ​@@RobertMcDermottAlso, I put the refrigerated food on the counter before I fill the feeders, as it isn't good for the hummingbirds to drink very cold food. I know when the cold nights come here in the Fall, there's nothing I can do about that. Most have gone south by then, but I keep them up through October for the stragglers.

  • @brandyrupert6341
    @brandyrupert6341 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Does this keep them from hanging out and trying to get in? Mine is COVERED with bees, all on the outside.

    • @bernardkung7306
      @bernardkung7306 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      The birds tend to spatter sugar solution just a little, so the outside of the base may sometimes need to be wiped down daily, even if the holes themselves are too small for the bugs to crawl in. (And of course the base should be washed regularly on the outside as well as on the inside, when cleaning/refilling the feeder.)

  • @FromRVtoCrafts
    @FromRVtoCrafts 9 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    Thanks for posting!!!

    • @TerrapinCreations666
      @TerrapinCreations666  9 ปีที่แล้ว

      Irma Brooks No problem! Hope it helped!

    • @FromRVtoCrafts
      @FromRVtoCrafts 9 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      It did, no more bee's!!! Hoorayyyyy!!

    • @TerrapinCreations666
      @TerrapinCreations666  9 ปีที่แล้ว

      Irma Brooks :D

    • @jonwolfie1
      @jonwolfie1 9 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Irma Brooks bees, not bee's

    • @FromRVtoCrafts
      @FromRVtoCrafts 9 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      Excuse me, Adam, oh I mean jonwolfie1 I thought you were my husband for a minute.

  • @trisa9625
    @trisa9625 4 ปีที่แล้ว

    ty bill

  • @calvinjackson8110
    @calvinjackson8110 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    An even more brilliant and simpler solution is to buy only feeders that are already bee proof.

  • @caridadrivera5516
    @caridadrivera5516 4 ปีที่แล้ว

    Awesome will try this, thank you

  • @melodypew5176
    @melodypew5176 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    I wonder if plastic canvas will work?

  • @suecox2308
    @suecox2308 6 ปีที่แล้ว

    Really ingenious.

  • @MrMacHobb
    @MrMacHobb 8 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    thank you!

  • @flossymaeone
    @flossymaeone ปีที่แล้ว

    I bought a bee proof feeder, don't like the idea of putting glue...it could hurt the sweet hummingbirds.

  • @MsPotter6
    @MsPotter6 5 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Genius

  • @wlcwalshlifecounseling4581
    @wlcwalshlifecounseling4581 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Genius!!!

  • @gerikelly2424
    @gerikelly2424 5 ปีที่แล้ว

    Clever idea!

  • @kathypileggi7650
    @kathypileggi7650 6 ปีที่แล้ว

    Wow...really great THANKS

  • @ffcorona
    @ffcorona 7 ปีที่แล้ว

    Dude you need to take your idea to one of those invention idea places and have them perfect it and make you some bucks.

  • @Justinator8400
    @Justinator8400 8 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    BEES????? I seen Yellow Jackets.

  • @whitesnowoyuki
    @whitesnowoyuki 10 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Did the bees go away ?

  • @fredbearfazbear3328
    @fredbearfazbear3328 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I don't mind bee's

  • @theonlypinky
    @theonlypinky 5 ปีที่แล้ว

    BRILLIANT!!!!!

  • @blevinsme1
    @blevinsme1 9 ปีที่แล้ว

    Thanks!!

  • @The69powerwagon
    @The69powerwagon 5 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I must have a newer model because the one I just got from Wal-Mart have small little slits to small for bees to inter.

    • @lieselgutierrez7439
      @lieselgutierrez7439 5 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      lostsoul the hummers don’t like the slit one. You end up having to enlarge for them, or they won’t eat from it.

    • @mairwaugus5203
      @mairwaugus5203 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      We keep bees & feed hummers. I have 3 of the feeders mentioned and never have bees inside. Bees have shorter tongues than hummers. No problem here!