Hummingbirds are beloved backyard visitors who bring color and life with their speedy flying and delicate beauty. To attract these tiny dynamos and support them through the seasons, many people use commercial nectar mixes sold as “hummingbird food.” This rich, sweet liquid provides the quick energy hummingbirds need to sustain their metabolisms and active lifestyles. But with so many options on the market, where’s the best place to find hummingbird food? Let’s look at whether one popular retailer – Ace Hardware – carries hummingbird nectar and feeders to draw these special birds to your yard.
What do hummingbirds eat?
Hummingbirds are specialized nectar feeders. Their long, slender beaks and tongues allow them to retrieve nectar from flowering plants. Hummingbirds get most of their calories from drinking nectar. They also consume small insects for essential proteins. Due to their extreme metabolic needs, hummingbirds must consume between half and eight times their body weight in nectar daily. That means finding adequate food sources is a constant quest for hummingbirds as they zoom through their territories.
Providing nectar supplements in feeders is one way people can assist hummingbirds. By offering a consistent nectar source, especially during migration when natural flowers may be scarce, people help provide the fuel hummingbirds require. However, not all hummingbird nectars are created equal. Artificial nectars should mimic natural concentrations and consist of simple ingredients. The optimal mix is 1 part white granulated sugar dissolved in 4 parts water. No food coloring, sweeteners, or additives are necessary – hummingbirds are attracted to the nectar itself, not the color of the liquid.
What types of hummingbird feeders are there?
There are several common types of hummingbird feeders used to serve supplemental nectar:
- Saucer or pan feeders: These wide, shallow dishes allow multiple hummingbirds to drink at once. They’re easy to clean and refill but empty nectar quickly.
- Tube feeders: Long, cylindrical containers with built-in “flowers” mimic natural feeding sources. Tubes regulate nectar flow.
- Regular or inverted bottle feeders: Glass or plastic bottles are suitable for hummingbirds. Inverted styles prevent nectar from spoiling.
- Specialty feeders: Unique shapes, materials like glass, or decorative embellishments set some feeders apart.
The best feeders minimize leaks, mold, and bee access. They also provide adequate capacity while limiting ant and wasp issues. Changing nectar frequently keeps it fresh. Many customers seek feeders that are easy to clean and fill, durable, and attractive in their landscapes.
What products does Ace Hardware offer for hummingbirds?
Ace Hardware stores aim to meet neighborhood needs. Their product selection includes gardening supplies, wild bird products, and other home and outdoor items. Here are some ways Ace Hardware can help customers care for hummingbirds:
| Product Category | Examples |
|---|---|
| Nectar mixes | Kaytee Instant Nectar powder, Kingsford’s Nature’s Nectar Complete instant and concentrated liquids |
| Feeders | Glass, plastic, or metal hanging and window styles from Perky-Pet, Spectrum, Kaytee, First Nature, and other brands |
| Replacement parts | Bottles, bases, flowers, bee guards, hanging cords |
| Supporting accessories | Nectar tanks, brushes, cleaning kits |
This extensive selection provides a variety of options to suit different budgets, tastes, and gardening needs. Customers can find trusted national brands of proven quality for feeding hummingbirds.
Nectar mixes
Instant and concentrated nectar mixes from Kaytee and other brands take the guesswork out of preparing homemade nectar. The powdered mixes easily dissolve in water. Pre-made concentrates only need to be diluted as directed. Some Ace Hardware stores may also carry cane sugar which customers can use to whip up DIY nectar.
Feeders
Ace Hardware stocks feeders in many common styles, including colorful blown glass, durable plastic, and lightweight metal. Both classic and decorative shapes are available to coordinate with yard decor. The various brand names ensure multiple price points as well. Smaller capacity, basic feeders start around $5 while deluxe, handcrafted glass feeders can cost $40 or more. With all the options, customers can likely find good-quality feeders matching their budget.
Replacement parts and accessories
Keeping feeders working properly requires periodically replacing worn parts like feeding flowers, sealing caps, or hanging cords. These components are essential but easy to misplace during cleaning. Fortunately, customers can find replacement parts for most major feeder brands right at Ace Hardware. Specialty accessories like brushes, cleaning kits, and extra nectar tanks or bases further support customers’ hummingbird care efforts.
How can I get the best hummingbird products at Ace Hardware?
Take advantage of Ace Hardware’s selection and services by following these tips:
- Visit the bird and wild birding department – Staff can direct you to hummingbird offerings.
- Shop early in the season for the best selection.
- Ask associates for help choosing products – Describe your needs and yard setup.
- Look for sales or coupons to save money.
- Check Ace Hardware’s website to see available inventory.
- Consider ordering online for delivery or in-store pickup.
With a combination of in-store and online shopping options, customers can certainly meet their hummingbird feeding needs at Ace Hardware. Connecting with knowledgeable staff both digitally and in person makes getting the right products even easier.
Key takeaways
Here are the key points from this article:
- Hummingbirds eat nectar from flowers as their main food source and also consume insects for protein.
- People use feeders with commercial nectar mixes to provide supplemental nutrition for hummingbirds.
- Ace Hardware sells various reputable brands of nectar, feeders, replacement parts, and accessories for hummingbird care.
- Shopping early, checking online inventory, and asking staff for input can help customers successfully buy hummingbird supplies from Ace.
Conclusion
Hummingbirds are specialized nectar-eating birds that require frequent feeding. While they obtain most of their diet naturally from flower nectar, homeowners can support hummingbird health by offering supplementary nectar, especially during migration. Ace Hardware provides all the essential products for attracting and sustaining hummingbirds. Their stores reliably stock national brand nectars, sturdy feeders in a variety of styles, and useful replacement parts and accessories. Knowledgeable staff and online inventory checks make shopping the selection easier. With the right hummingbird care products from Ace Hardware, you can enjoy a beautiful array of visiting hummingbirds throughout the seasons.
