Hang the hummingbird feeder about 10 feet away from trees and shrubs. According to Cornell University, this distance allows hummingbirds to rest or hide on the plants, while also preventing squirrels and cats from using the plants as jumping-off points to reach the feeder.
Cornell University recommends placing a feeder where it is protected from wind to prevent it from swaying and spilling. Hang it under shade because the sun could spoil its sugar solution quickly.
If several hummingbirds visit your backyard, put up more feeders to reduce competition. The University of Kentucky recommends hanging a feeder at least 15 feet away from another feeder.