It was Tuesday and we were working the aviary division. We’re on our way to Rancho Cucamonga to check out a 3-11 -- feeder abuse. "Open up, bird police. Understand you've got a hummingbird feeder, and black ants are getting into the nectar supply, scaring off the birds and making a mess. Haven’t you heard about cup-shaped ant guards that surround the hanger device with synthetic permethrin, a nontoxic version of the natural substance pyrethrum that protects flowers from insect attack?" Another protector, called the ant moat, holds water or petroleum jelly and fends off ants. Look for them at home and garden centers and pick one up. Remember: ants aren’t for the birds and nectar neglect is a crime. Those are the facts. And that's the On The House tip for today.