How to keep flies/other flying insects out of hummingbird feeders?

Question

I have solved the ant problem buy wrapping a small piece of fly paper around the hook where the ants travel down into the feeders. The fly paper does not stop the flying creatures from getting into the feeder holes. Within a day the surface of the sugar water is covered with dead bugs. Help!

Carol Cole · Answer

mint, they don't like it

Oliva · Answer

Place sticky trap on the pole. Buy hummingbird feeders with 'Bee guards' which prohibit flies entering. Plant basil nearby. Don't drip any hummingbird feeder liquid on ground when refilling. Diatomaceous eath on ground around feeder area will kill crawling insects.

Number5 · Answer

How about giving the insects their own water supply? just an idea.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3inyt1kQPSQ

Also, instead of the fly paper you might wish to install an ant moat. Some feeders come with an ant moat on the top of the feeder, but most people are not aware that is what it is. If your feeder has a lip or a cup like top - that is an ant moat. You can buy an ant moat at Lowes or online - but you can also make your own moat. The moat is just a small area of water on the top of the feeder. Ants do not like to cross water. They will crawl down the hook - discover the water - turn around and go away. Here is a couple of youtube videos, if you are interested.