Quick Answer
Yes, homemade hummingbird nectar can be refrigerated. It is recommended to store unused hummingbird nectar in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Refrigeration helps slow down the growth of mold and bacteria that can make the nectar go bad quickly. Pre-made, store-bought hummingbird nectar generally should not be refrigerated before opening. Once opened, it can be refrigerated for 1-2 days.
Does Hummingbird Nectar Need to Be Refrigerated?
Hummingbird nectar is essentially a sugar-water solution made by mixing white granulated sugar with water. The sugar provides a quick energy boost for hummingbirds.
Because it is high in sugar, homemade hummingbird nectar is prone to growing mold, bacteria, and fermenting if left out too long at room temperature. Refrigeration helps slow this down.
Here are some guidelines for refrigerating hummingbird nectar:
Homemade Nectar
– Make a fresh batch weekly. Discard any old nectar.
– Store unused portions covered in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
– Let refrigerated nectar come to room temperature before filling feeders. Cold nectar could shock hummingbirds.
Store-Bought Nectar
– Before opening, store-bought nectar can be kept in the pantry up to the expiration date. Refrigeration is not needed yet.
– Once opened, refrigerate for 1-2 days. Discard any remainder.
– As with homemade nectar, let come to room temperature before filling feeders.
Why Refrigerate Hummingbird Nectar?
There are two main benefits to refrigerating unused hummingbird nectar:
Slows Mold Growth
The sugar in hummingbird nectar provides an ideal environment for mold to grow when left out at room temperature. Refrigeration between 40-50°F slows the growth of mold spores.
Slows Fermentation
The yeasts naturally present in nectar can start fermenting the sugar into alcohol if left unchecked. This can happen within 2 days at room temperature. Refrigeration slows fermentation.
Storing hummingbird nectar properly in the refrigerator gives you a bit more leeway between having to make fresh batches.
Signs Nectar Has Gone Bad
Even when refrigerated, homemade hummingbird nectar only lasts about 1 week before going bad. Here are some signs old nectar should be discarded:
– Cloudiness
– Moldy residue around lid or rim
– Fermented smell – yeasty or sour
– Bubbles in nectar
Do not leave spoiled nectar in feeders. It can make hummingbirds sick. Always wash feeders thoroughly with hot water before refilling.
Tips for Refrigerating Hummingbird Nectar
Follow these tips to safely store hummingbird nectar in the refrigerator:
Use a Clean Container
Make nectar in a clean, sealed container, not the feeder. Glass jars or plastic bottles work well. Always wash containers in hot, soapy water between uses.
Fill Nectar to the Top
Minimize air at the top of the storage container. The less air space, the less room for mold to grow.
Refrigerate Promptly
Refrigerate fresh batches of unused nectar promptly after making it. Don’t let it sit out.
Label with Date
Mark the storage container with the date you made the nectar. Use within 1 week.
No Plastic Feeders in Fridge
Do not refrigerate plastic feeders filled with nectar. The cold can make plastic brittle.
How to Make Hummingbird Nectar for the Refrigerator
Making nectar ahead of time for refrigerated storage is easy:
Ingredients:
– 1 part white sugar
– 4 parts water
Do not use honey, brown sugar, or artificial sweeteners, which are unhealthy for hummingbirds.
Directions:
1. Bring water to a boil.
2. Remove from heat and stir in sugar until completely dissolved.
3. Allow to cool before refrigerating.
4. Refrigerate nectar in a covered jar or bottle.
5. Label jar with date.
6. Use within 1 week.
This basic 1:4 ratio makes nectar with 20% sugar content, similar to natural flower nectar.
How Long Does Hummingbird Nectar Last?
Here is a table summarizing how long homemade and store-bought hummingbird nectar lasts:
| Nectar Type | Refrigerated | Room Temperature |
|---|---|---|
| Homemade | Up to 1 week | 2-3 days |
| Store-bought (unopened) | Until expiration date | Until expiration date |
| Store-bought (opened) | 1-2 days | Discard after 1 day |
As a general rule, homemade nectar lasts a bit longer than store-bought in the refrigerator. But no nectar lasts more than a week.
When to Change Nectar
To ensure freshness, follow these nectar change recommendations:
– Empty and clean feeders every 2-3 days
– Make a new batch of nectar weekly
– Refill feeders with room temperature nectar, not straight from fridge
Change nectar more frequently in hot weather when spoilage happens faster.
Can You Freeze Hummingbird Nectar?
Freezing is not recommended for long-term storage of hummingbird nectar. Here’s why:
Crystalizes Sugar
Freezing causes the sugar in the nectar to crystallize. Hummingbirds will not drink nectar with solid sugar crystals.
Separates Liquid
The water may separate from the sugar when thawed, altering the 1:4 ratio that provides vital nutrition.
Invites Mold
Thawing frozen nectar leaves excess moisture that promotes mold growth.
For occasional use, nectar can be frozen in an ice cube tray and thawed daily for 24 hours as needed. But regular refrigeration is the best way to store unused hummingbird nectar.
Where to Place Hummingbird Feeders
To attract hummingbirds, hang feeders in these optimal spots:
Near Flowers and Trees
Place feeders near bright, tubular flowers or trees that provide cover. Hummingbirds often feed and perch nearby.
Out of Direct Sun
Avoid direct afternoon sun which can ferment nectar faster. Morning sun is fine.
Above Ground Level
Hang feeders at least 5 feet high so hummingbirds have a clear flight path.
In view of Windows
Letting hummingbirds get comfortable near windows gives you great viewing.
Position feeders correctly, keep nectar fresh and sugary, and hummingbirds will find your feeders in no time!
FAQs
Should hummingbird food be refrigerated at night?
No, only unused portions of nectar need refrigeration. Feeders can be left outside overnight. The small amount of nectar consumed daily does not spoil that quickly.
Do hummingbirds drink cold nectar?
Hummingbirds prefer room temperature nectar. If straight from the fridge, let it warm up before filling feeders so as not to shock or chill the hummingbirds.
How long does store-bought hummingbird nectar last after opening?
An opened bottle or carton of store-bought nectar will last 1-2 days in the fridge. Discard any remainder after that.
Conclusion
Properly refrigerating unused hummingbird nectar is key to keeping it fresh and mold-free. Fresh homemade nectar can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Opened store-bought nectar will last 1-2 days. Remember to always bring refrigerated nectar to room temperature before filling feeders. Follow these refrigeration guidelines and changing recommendations to attract more hummingbirds to your feeders with healthy, sugary nectar.
