Hummingbirds are beautiful, fascinating creatures that many people enjoy attracting to their yards. Using a Mason jar as a hummingbird feeder is an easy, inexpensive way to do so. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to use a Mason jar as a hummingbird feeder.
What you need
To make a Mason jar hummingbird feeder, you will need:
- A clean wide-mouth Mason jar or other glass jar
- White granulated sugar
- Water
- A piece of string, twine or wire
- A punch or nail for making holes
- A dish or bottle brush for cleaning
- (Optional) Food coloring
Choosing a jar
When choosing a jar, opt for a wide-mouth Mason jar or other short, wide glass jar. This makes it easier for the hummingbirds to access the nectar. The jar should hold at least 1 cup of liquid.
Make sure the jar and lid have been thoroughly cleaned before using. Do not use any jar that previously held food products or anything that could leave behind residue. The jar should only be used for the hummingbird feeder.
Making the nectar
To make the nectar, mix 1 part white granulated sugar with 4 parts water. For example, mix 1 cup sugar with 4 cups water. Stir or shake the solution until the sugar fully dissolves.
Do not use any other type of sugar, like brown sugar, raw sugar, honey or artificial sweeteners. Plain white table sugar is recommended.
Store-bought mixes specifically for hummingbird food can also be used by following the mixing instructions on the package.
(Optional) Add a couple drops of red food coloring to the nectar. While not necessary, this can help attract the hummingbirds.
Nectar Tips
- Make a fresh batch every 2-3 days, or more often in hot weather. Dump out and rinse the jar before refilling.
- Keep leftover nectar refrigerated for up to 1 week. Discard any that looks cloudy or develops mold.
- Do not add red dye to old nectar. Only add it when making a fresh batch.
Filling the jar
Pour the finished nectar into the Mason jar, filling it about halfway. Leave room at the top for the hummingbirds to easily dip their long beaks and tongues into the liquid.
Screw the lid on tightly so it does not leak. Wipe away any drips or spills.
Hanging the feeder
Use a hole punch or small nail to poke 2 holes on opposite sides of the Mason jar lid. Thread a piece of string, twine or wire through the holes to create a hanger.
Hang the feeder by looping the string around a tree branch, shepherd’s hook, porch beam or other location. Position the feeder so the opening is level or tilted slightly upward. Hang it in a shady spot between 3-5 feet off the ground.
Choose a location where hummingbirds have open access and can easily fly to the feeder. Do not hang it directly above a deck or patio where they could get trapped underneath.
Hanging Tips
- Move the feeder periodically to prevent buildup of bacteria, mold and other dirt.
- Hang in a sheltered area away from direct sun and wind.
- Avoid locations where cats, squirrels or other animals can reach.
Maintaining the feeder
It is important to regularly clean and maintain your Mason jar hummingbird feeder to keep it safe for the birds.
Every 2-3 days, take the feeder down and empty out the old nectar. Rinse the jar and lid in hot water. Use a bottle brush or pipe cleaner to scrub away any debris or buildup.
Let the empty pieces air dry completely before refilling with fresh nectar. Only use plain water for rinsing, no soap or chemicals.
Also inspect the feeder for damage like chips or cracks each time you clean. Replace any pieces that are compromised so there are no sharp edges or risks of leaking.
Cleaning Tips
- Clean every 2-3 days and before refilling with new nectar.
- Use hot water only, no soap which can leave unsafe residue.
- Completely dry all parts before refilling.
- Replace any damaged or leaking pieces.
Troubleshooting problems
Even with proper care, a Mason jar hummingbird feeder can run into issues. Here are some common problems and solutions:
Cloudy nectar
Cloudiness is a sign of mold or bacteria growing in the nectar. Immediately empty the jar and do not reuse the nectar. Wash the jar thoroughly before making a new batch.
Insects in the jar
Small ants, bees and other bugs can get inside the nectar. Empty the jar and clean it. Consider rehanging it in a new spot away from trees/plants insects live on.
Leaking jar
If the jar leaks, the lid is likely not sealing properly. Replace the lid or use a new jar. Be sure the lid and rim are entirely dry before reassembling.
Cracked jar
Throw away any jar with cracks or chips. These create unsafe, sharp edges and risk cutting the hummingbirds. Replace with a new, undamaged jar.
No hummingbirds visiting
It can take a few days for hummingbirds to discover a new feeder. Be patient. Try moving the feeder to a more visible location. Add more red coloring to the nectar as an extra attractant.
Conclusion
With these simple tips, you can easily turn a Mason jar into an effective, safe hummingbird feeder. The key things to remember are:
- Use a 1:4 ratio of sugar to water for fresh nectar
- Change the nectar every 2-3 days
- Thoroughly clean the jar and lid between refills
- Hang the feeder in a shady, sheltered location
- Regularly inspect for damage and leaks
Following these steps will provide your local hummingbirds with a dependable food source they will visit again and again. Enjoy watching these colorful, delicate birds feed and interact around your DIY Mason jar feeder all season long!
