Do Hummingbirds like saucer feeders
Of course we can't say what kind of feeders Hummingbirds truly like most, if they like any particular feeder at all, but what I do know is this type of feeder is easier to observe.
Hummingbirds do like saucer-style Hummingbird feeders, largely because they feel safer as they can see potential dangers at all angles. Saucer feeders benefit people too, in that you can observe all Hummers feeding, rather than those hidden behind a central reservoir - where a discreet metal bar will be instead.
I can't speak for all Hummingbirds but I do know I personally prefer a saucer-style Hummingbird feeder, which brings many benefits to the bird feeder pole.
Among them, I just like how this type of Hummingbird feeder is less likely to leak or drip nectar, simply because its nectar in a dish; as oppose to relying on a vacuum which seems to be the cause of leaking nectar-filled feeders.
Why a Hummingbird sauce feeder may be preferred by Ruby-throated to Anna's Hummingbirds, is simply because how easy it is to feed out of, with few restrictions.
I will say, although tall type feeders, and this horizontal-type Hummingbird feeder remains fully accessible to perching or hovering Hummingbirds; on a saucer-style Hummingbird feeder, at least you will benefit with no obstacles in your way.
The very best saucer Hummingbird feeders will provide several visible port well points that face upwards, while at the same time a perch is a must-have in addition to extra wells on this sauce-style feeder.
Hummingbirds will perch if they have to but they will like a saucer feeder that utilizes perches - simply because there's a time when they like to rest as they feed. And when fighting off competition, it helps they can perch to stabilize.
Hummingbirds may appreciate this kind of flat top - featuring a curve over the saucer top side- because it will allow timid Hummers to be fully aware of their surroundings.
Unlike a tall/tower type Hummingbird feeder, this center located nectar-reservoir bottle would get in their way of impending trouble.
Best style to observe
When it comes to finding the best way to hang a Hummingbird feeder while maintaining an unimpeded view point, regardless of where this kind of Hummingbird feeder is hung, you will always be able to view multiple feeding Hummers.
With Hummingbirds taking up a place on all port wells on specifically a tower/tall-style Hummingbird feeder, unfortunately this will mean you will only be able to see those on the same side as you.
Meanwhile, you will be potentially missing out on all the Hummingbirds feeding action which could be taking place behind the center positioned reservoir.
Not so with a saucer Hummingbird feeder, as the flat-top nectar saucer-style reservoir will allow you to observe Hummers feeding at each and every port well.
All that will get in your way of a saucer feeder is the solid steel bar that is used to hang.
Just as long as the Hummingbird feeder is suspended at a reasonable but safe height on a bird feeder pole - where all it will take is to quietly walk to your window to observe.
Best style of Hummingbird feeders are these saucer-like feeders where it not only benefits Hummingbirds, but can benefit a whole series of common bird feeder birds.
Benefits other birds too
Not necessarily what you will be after but not only are saucer feeders a big hit with Hummers, they will very much be liked by many backyard bird species.
Among them will be Orioles of course who are nectar-feeding birds, along with: Grosbeaks, Chickadees, Warblers, Woodpeckers, Mockingbirds, and Tanagers.
In case of larger but less agile Grosbeaks, they will appreciate the flat top saucer feeder of which, they can use as a perch.
With Woodpeckers you will find they will probably perch as normal along with their long tails tucked in beneath the feeder. All others mentioned will either perch as normal while probably standing on top of this type of Hummingbird feeder.
To attract a wide variety of wild birds to a nectar-filled Hummingbird feeder, while not intended, it certainly isn't preventable - and that is true with a Hummingbird saucer feeder that utilizes a flat top where all backyard bird species can perch.
Reserving a Hummingbird feeder for Hummingbirds only would rely on blocking other birds by masking cavities on the feeder while doing away with perches.
Unfortunately though, it would involve not using this easy to access saucer style feeder.
Perch surround vs. many
As you will know Hummingbirds will decide to either hover or perch on a Hummingbird feeder, of which its probably best to buy a Hummingbird feeder with a perch included.
Saucer Hummingbird feeders do come with and without perches, with a wider variety of Hummingbirds preferring perches rather than none at all.
And while saucer-style Hummingbird feeders can feature individual perch placements next to each port well - expect a saucer feeder to feature a full surround perch ring - or what you could call a halo.
Hummingbirds like this perch style more because it allows them to carefully position themselves to sip on nectar comfortably. Whereas an individual perch can only be used in the way it was situated.
Full ring/halo perch placement would mean Hummingbirds can perch to feed, while at the same time could take a place to simply rest.
Conclude
I can't say with 100% certainty all Hummingbirds like a saucer feeder, but I am sure a handful will appreciate how easy it is to feed out of.
Hummingbirds are timid creatures and thus could come to like a flat-top nectar feeder that will allow them to observe their surroundings.
Unlike a central positioned nectar reservoir bottle that will get in the way of both Hummingbirds and people - at least this flat-top saucer feeder will ensure a great viewpoint for all those involved.
Downsides to a saucer feeder can be this type of Hummingbird feeder is more accessible; beneficial to Hummers of course but it means its open to all wild birds.
On the plus side its easy to fill and maintain a horizontal Hummingbird feeder, and is less prone to leaking.
With that, a solid central positioned steel bar used to suspend off a bird feeding station bracket, will prevent the Hummingbird feeder from spinning aggressively around - and so another benefit to you and Hummers who often avoid an actively moving feeder.
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