It doesn't matter to the hummingbirds if it is in the shade or the sun but it does matter to the sugar water. When it is in the sun, it does need to be changed more often. If you have a hanging feeder, you can purchase an ant guard which is basically a cup to hang above it. Once filled with water, ants can't go past it. If it is a suction cup window feeder, there is not much you can do. I have one that I love so I spray the window sills with ant spray and change the liquid frequently. They also sell bee guards with are plastic yellow pieces that fit in the ports. The hummingbirds can get the liquid but the bees cannot.