How to Make Hummingbird Nectar

Hummingbird

Hummingbird Nectar is Easy to Make

You can get hummingbird nectar at the store. However, it is simple and easy to make a homemade hummingbird nectar recipe. And, for a whole lot less money. It only includes sugar and water. Furthermore, it only takes a few minutes to make this vitally important hummingbird food..

Note: Store-bought nectar includes a dye to make it red in color. This is because the birds are attracted to the color red. However, red-colored nectar is not necessary. Hummingbird feeders are red, and the feeding ports are usually yellow. This attracts the birds. In addition, some believe the dye can be harmful. 

It seems every serious bird enthusiast wants a hummingbird in their backyard. The good news is that attracting hummingbirds is not too difficult. We suggest a two-step approach: Plant flowers that attract hummingbirds. Second, get a hummingbird feeder. Place the feeder near a window, where you can view these amazing, yet tiny birds.

Chances are, a packet of hummingbird nectar will come with your new feeder. After using that up, you do not need to buy Hummingbird nectar. Rather, it is quick, easy, and far less expensive to make yourself.

Did You Know? While they like their nectar, ants are the favorite hummingbird food.

How to Make Hummingbird Nectar Recipe

The hummingbird nectar recipe is simple. There are just two ingredients: water and sugar. The ratio is one part sugar to four parts boiling water

Here are the simple steps:

  1. Pour one cup of boiling water into a small bowl.
  2. Add 1/4 cup of white table sugar.
  3. Stir until the sugar is dissolved.
  4. Allow the hummingbird nectar to cool to room temperature.
  5. Pour nectar into a clean hummingbird feeder.
  6. Store any excess in the refrigerator.

Tip: Don’t dilute this formula with more water than the recipe calls for. If anything, use a little less water. Your birds know the difference. 

Hummingbird

Keep Feeders Clean for Safety

Spoiled nectar, bacteria, and diseases can be dangerous to your hummingbirds. Here are some tips for keeping your hummingbird healthy:

  1. Replace the nectar every 5-7 days, more frequently in hot weather.
  2. Clean the feeder with soap and water each time you refill it.
  3. Place the feeder out of direct sunlight.
  4. Do not use red food dyes in the nectar. It offers no nutritional value and could harm your hummingbird. The red feeder is sufficient to attract the birds.
  5. Do not use honey or any other ingredients.

More on Birds

Here is more information on how to attract birds you tour backyard, and how to keep them there:

Bird Feeding Chart

Controlling Birds

Facts

Food

Shelter

Butterflies

Squirrels

Learn About Other Birds
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