Hummingbirds are amazing little creatures that bring joy to backyard birdwatchers everywhere. To attract these flying jewels, many people offer homemade nectar in feeders. However, questions arise about how long homemade nectar lasts before going bad.
What is hummingbird nectar?
Hummingbird nectar is simply sugar water that mimics the natural nectar found in flowers. Natural nectar consists mainly of sucrose, fructose, and glucose in a solution of about 25% sugar. Since it is time-consuming to make nectar entirely from natural ingredients, most people make homemade nectar by dissolving white granulated sugar in water. The appropriate ratio is 1 part sugar to 4 parts water. This creates a 20% sugar solution that provides hummingbirds with the quick energy they need.
Does the nectar go bad?
Yes, homemade hummingbird nectar can go bad for a couple of reasons: fermentation and spoilage. Here is a look at how and why this happens:
Fermentation
Fermentation occurs when yeast in the air or container consume the sugar in the nectar and convert it to alcohol. This typically happens in hot weather, as the heat accelerates the growth of yeast. The hotter it is, the faster fermentation can occur. Cloudiness, bubbling, and alcohol odor are signs of fermented nectar.
Spoilage
Two common types of spoilage can occur:
- Mold growth – Nectar exposed to air can allow mold spores floating around to take hold and multiply. This will look fuzzy or have spots of black, green, or other colors. Mold can be toxic.
- Bacterial contamination – Bacteria rapidly multiply in sugar water, especially in warm temperatures. This causes the nectar to take on a slimy consistency or strange odors.
Consumption of fermented or spoiled nectar can make hummingbirds sick. For this reason, homemade nectar should be discarded and replaced regularly before it goes bad.
How long does it last?
The exact shelf life of homemade hummingbird nectar depends on a few factors:
Sugar concentration
Nectar made with an optimal 20% sugar concentration lasts longer than more dilute nectar. The higher sugar concentration helps inhibit fermentation and bacterial growth. Here are general guidelines for how long different sugar concentrations may last:
| Sugar Concentration | Shelf Life |
|---|---|
| 20% (1:4 ratio) | Up to 2 weeks |
| 15-18% (1:5 ratio) | 5-7 days |
| 10% (1:10 ratio) | 2-3 days |
Temperature
As mentioned above, heat accelerates spoilage. Here are general guidelines for how long nectar lasts at different temperatures:
| Temperature | Shelf Life |
|---|---|
| Over 90°F (32°C) | 2-3 days |
| 70-90°F (21-32°C) | 5-7 days |
| Below 70°F (21°C) | Up to 2 weeks |
Cleanliness
Sanitizing nectar feeders and bottles helps minimize bacterial and mold contamination. Here are some general cleanliness guidelines:
- Wash with hot, soapy water before first use and before refilling. Rinse thoroughly.
- Disassemble feeders and clean all parts.
- Let air dry fully before refilling.
- Don’t let nectar touch your hands, spout of container, etc when refilling.
- Don’t “top off” nectar – empty and refill completely each time.
Preservatives
Some people add preservatives like citric acid or ascorbic acid (vitamin C) to extend the shelf life. However, research on whether these are safe and effective is conflicting. The safest approach is to make fresh nectar in small batches and replace frequently.
Signs it’s gone bad
Watch for these signs that homemade nectar has spoiled:
- Cloudiness
- Visible mold
- Yeasty smell
- Fermented odor like wine or vinegar
- Fizzing or bubbling
- Slimy texture
- Unnatural colors
If you observe any signs of spoilage, promptly discard the nectar and clean the feeder thoroughly before refilling.
Safety tips
To safely enjoy hummingbirds feeding, follow these general nectar safety recommendations:
Nectar Concentration
- Use 1 part sugar to 4 parts water for optimal 20% solution.
- Avoid going above 25% concentration, as too much sugar can harm hummingbird kidneys.
- Always use plain white sugar only, never honey, artificial sweeteners, etc.
- Boil the water first and let it cool before mixing to further inhibit mold.
Storage
- Make nectar in small batches to limit waste.
- Refrigerate unused portion for up to 1 week.
- Store in clean, sealed containers, not metal.
- Never mix old and new batches together.
Feeders
- Clean feeders thoroughly before first use and each refill.
- Rinse well with hot water – no detergent.
- Don’t “top off” – empty and refill completely.
- Change nectar every 2-3 days in hot weather.
- Consider using ant moats to keep ants away.
Following proper nectar hygiene practices helps provide hummingbirds with a safe, nutritional food source.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I make a new batch every day?
You don’t need to make fresh nectar every day. In moderate temperatures, nectar should last 5-7 days. Just make sure to fully replace the nectar instead of topping it off.
Can I leave nectar out overnight?
It’s best to dump out any leftover nectar by the end of the day and make a new batch in the morning. Leaving it out provides more opportunity for fermentation.
What’s the ideal room temperature range?
70°F – 80°F is ideal. Refrigerate unused portions for longer shelf life. Discard any nectar left out overnight.
How often should I clean the feeders?
Every time you refill is best, or every 2-3 days minimum. Use hot water and scrub thoroughly to remove residue.
Can I use artificial sweeteners?
No, stick with plain white sugar only. Artificial sweeteners provide no nutritional value and may be unsafe.
Conclusion
Homemade hummingbird nectar does have a limited shelf life before going bad. Fermentation and spoilage can occur within 2 weeks, or sooner in hot conditions. Use a 20% sugar ratio, proper hygiene, small batches, and refrigeration to maximize freshness. Discard any nectar that smells or looks abnormal.
With proper care and maintenance of feeders and nectar, you can safely enjoy feeding hummingbirds all season long. The little extra effort helps provide them with a nutritious food source that gives them the energy they need to buzz around your yard.
