Hummingbirds are amazing little creatures. Their ability to hover and fly backwards sets them apart from other birds. These unique skills allow them to get nectar from flowers that other birds can’t. Hummingbirds have voracious appetites and need a lot of energy to power their wings. They get most of their energy from flower nectar and tree sap. When flowers are not available, many people supplement their diet with sugar water feeders. This provides the birds with the quick energy they need. However, there are risks associated with feeding hummingbirds sugar water. If not changed frequently, the sugar water can ferment or grow mold. Consuming spoiled sugar water can make hummingbirds sick. This article will examine whether old sugar water can make hummingbirds sick, signs of sickness, and how to prevent it.
Do Hummingbirds Get Sick from Old Sugar Water?
Yes, hummingbirds can get sick from consuming old, fermented, or moldy sugar water from feeders. Just like people, hummingbirds can develop digestive issues from eating spoiled food. Their small size makes them vulnerable.
Fermented sugar water contains yeast and alcohol from the fermentation process. This can cause intoxication, impacting their flight and orientation. Moldy sugar water contains dangerous mycotoxins that can make birds very ill. Consuming even small amounts of contaminated sugar water can be deadly for hummingbirds. That’s why it’s critical to keep feeders clean and change the sugar water frequently.
Signs a Hummingbird is Sick from Bad Sugar Water
Here are some signs that a hummingbird may be sick from drinking old sugar water:
Lethargy
Healthy hummingbirds are very active and energetic. A lethargic hummingbird sitting still on a perch or the ground may be sick.
Loss of Appetite
These birds eat often to maintain their high metabolisms. Loss of appetite is a warning sign something is wrong.
Weakness
Hummingbirds have weak legs and rely on their wings for mobility. If a bird seems too weak to fly or has labored breathing, it could indicate illness.
Feather Puffing
A sick bird may fluff out its feathers to retain body heat, signaling it’s under the weather.
Tremors
Uncontrolled shaking of the wings or body can signal toxicity from spoiled sugar water.
Disorientation
Hummingbirds are very precise fliers. Bumping into objects or unstable fluttering can be a sign of intoxication from fermented nectar.
Not Using the Feeder
If local hummingbirds suddenly stop using your feeder, contaminated water could be suspect.
Dangers of Consuming Spoiled Sugar Water
Here are some of the most common risks of drinking old sugar water:
Digestive Issues
Consuming rancid sugar water can cause gastrointestinal distress like cramps, diarrhea, and vomiting.
Dehydration
Illness can lead to dangerous dehydration in hummingbirds, which need to drink frequently.
Liver Damage
Toxins from fermented or moldy sugar water can cause liver dysfunction or failure.
Kidney Problems
Kidneys can be compromised trying to flush toxins from contaminated nectar.
Weakened Immune System
Sickness makes hummingbirds vulnerable to secondary infections like bacterial or fungal diseases.
Neurological Issues
Neurotoxins in spoiled sugar water can impact the nervous system, causing disorientation or paralysis.
Death
Without swift treatment, hummingbirds can die from organ damage or severe dehydration.
How to Prevent Hummingbirds Getting Sick
Here are some tips to provide hummingbirds with healthy sugar water:
Change it Frequently
Empty and rinse feeders, replacing sugar water every 2-3 days, or daily in hot weather when fermentation risk is high.
Use the Proper Sugar/Water Ratio
Use 1 part sugar to 4 parts water. Too much sugar causes faster fermentation. Avoid honey, fruits, or other additives.
Boil the Water
Boiling the water first kills mold spores and bacteria before mixing in the sugar. Let it cool before filling feeders.
Clean Feeders Thoroughly
Use a bottle brush, mild soap, and water to scrub the feeding ports where mold can accumulate. Rinse well.
Avoid Moisture in Storage Containers
Store unused sugar water in airtight containers in the refrigerator to prevent mold. Discard any with condensation.
Check for Signs of Fermentation
Cloudiness, white film, or bubbling indicate yeast is growing. Toss it out immediately.
Monitor Bird Health
Watch for signs of illness and capture any potentially sick birds for wildlife rehabilitation.
Conclusion
Hummingbirds have very high metabolisms and can burn through sugar water quickly. Rancid sugar water containing mold, fungus, or alcohol from fermentation can make hummingbirds sick. By changing sugar water frequently, cleaning feeders properly, and monitoring bird health, we can help hummingbirds avoid getting sick. Using fresh sugar water will keep these special pollinators healthy and energetic. With some simple maintenance, you can enjoy watching hummingbirds feed safely all season long.
