Yes, it is absolutely possible to make a simple yet effective hummingbird feeder out of a typical Mason jar. Mason jars are readily available, inexpensive, and easy to modify into a feeding station that will attract hummingbirds to your yard.
What you’ll need
To make a Mason jar hummingbird feeder, you’ll need:
- A wide-mouth glass Mason jar (quart size or larger)
- Some twine, string, or fishing line
- A screw eye or some other method to attach the hanging string
- A drill and drill bit (optional)
- Hummingbird nectar
- A small paint brush or Q-tip (to apply nectar)
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to make your Mason jar hummingbird feeder:
- Wash the Mason jar thoroughly and let it dry completely.
- Using a drill with a small drill bit, make two small holes near the rim of the lid. Make the holes on opposite sides of the lid.
- Cut a piece of twine or string long enough to make a hanger. 30-36 inches should work for most settings.
- Thread the twine through the holes in the lid. Secure it by tying large knots on the inside to keep it in place.
- Fill the jar half full with plain white sugar or premixed hummingbird nectar (one part sugar to four parts water). Do not use any food coloring.
- Screw the lid tightly onto the jar.
- To hang, tie the loose ends of twine together to form a loop and hang on a secure hook or branch.
And that’s it! Your homemade hummingbird feeder is ready to hang up and start feeding your local hummingbirds.
Tips
Here are some helpful tips for using a Mason jar hummingbird feeder:
- Change the sugar water every 2-3 days, more often in hot weather. Rinse the jar fully before refilling.
- Clean the jar with a bottle brush every week to prevent mold growth.
- Use plain white sugar only. Do not add food coloring, honey, or artificial sweeteners.
- Hang in light shade to keep the nectar from spoiling as quickly.
- Store any extra nectar in the fridge for up to a week.
- Consider adding multiple feeders spaced apart to reduce dominance by territorial birds.
Troubleshooting
Here are some common issues and solutions for Mason jar hummingbird feeders:
Problem | Solution |
---|---|
Ants in the feeder | Coat a thread with petroleum jelly and wrap around the hanging wire. Keep the jar hanging over a solid surface rather than plants or grass. |
Bees around the feeder | Move the feeder farther away from flowering plants. Consider using a bee guard. |
Moldy nectar | Change the nectar every 2-3 days during warm weather. Clean the feeder weekly. |
Leaks | Ensure the lid has a tight seal. Add more knots to the hanging string to keep it centered and prevent leaks. |
Customization
The great thing about a Mason jar hummingbird feeder is that it’s easy to customize and decorate.
Some ideas include:
- Painting the jar with non-toxic acrylic paint in colors to match your garden
- Gluing flower-shaped gems, glitter, or ribbon around the outside of the jar
- Using colored twine or wire for hanging instead of plain string
- Wrapping wire spirals around the jar top and hanging wire for a shabby chic or Victorian look
- Hot gluing decorative elements like buttons or seashells to the lid
Get creative with different jars, lid styles, and decorative extras to make your feeder unique. Just be sure to use materials that are non-toxic and thoroughly cleaned.
Placement
Where you hang your Mason jar hummingbird feeder in your yard can make a difference in how often hummers visit:
- Hang in a spot about 5 feet off the ground and not directly under tree branches or leaves.
- Place near flowers, shrubs, or trees that attract hummingbirds.
- Choose a spot that gets some shade during the hottest parts of the day.
- Allow ample clearance so hummers have room to maneuver around the feeder.
- Avoid areas right next to walkways or high traffic zones.
Try hanging in different spots until you find the location your yard’s hummingbirds seem to prefer. And as seasons change, keep an eye out for optimal new areas.
Maintenance
With proper care and maintenance, a Mason jar hummingbird feeder can last for many seasons of enjoyment:
- Check the sugar nectar level daily and refill as needed.
- Make fresh nectar weekly or more often in hot weather.
- Take apart and wash the jar and components with a bottle brush every week.
- Discard old nectar down the drain instead of on the ground.
- Consider making multiples so one jar can be cleaned while the other is in use.
- Replace any twine or hanging components that get frayed or degraded by the weather.
- Watch for leaks around the lid and remount the twine and/or add a rubber gasket if needed.
With proper care and cleaning, your Mason jar hummingbird feeder can provide years of service!
Conclusion
Crafting a hummingbird feeder from a Mason jar is an easy, fun project that anyone can do. With minimal supplies, simple construction, and a bit of creativity, you can have a unique feeder ready to hang in your yard.
Mason jar feeders allow you to watch and enjoy the beauty of hummingbirds up close while supplementing their natural diet with nourishing nectar. Plus, they add a handcrafted touch of rustic charm to your outdoor space.
As long as the feeder is kept clean and maintained properly, it will attract numerous hummers to visit your yard daily once word gets out. Bring the magic of hummingbirds to your garden this season with a handmade Mason jar feeder!