Hummingbirds are remarkable little creatures. Their tiny bodies and fast metabolisms require that they consume up to half their body weight in nectar each day. Because of their high energy needs, it’s crucial to provide hummingbirds with a nourishing nectar solution.
When it comes to making homemade nectar for hummingbirds, the most common sweetener used is plain white granulated sugar. But some people prefer to use cane sugar instead. So is cane sugar an acceptable option for hummingbird food?
What is cane sugar?
Cane sugar, sometimes called raw sugar, is derived from sugar cane plants. The sugar cane juice is extracted and then crystallized to produce the sugar. Cane sugar has a subtle caramel flavor and brown color.
There are a few different types of cane sugar:
- Demerara – Coarse grained, light brown sugar with a mild molasses flavor
- Turbinado – Less processed than white sugar, light golden brown color
- Muscovado – Very dark brown, with a more pronounced molasses taste
Compared to regular white table sugar, cane sugar is less refined and contains traces of vitamins, minerals, and other plant compounds. However, the nutritional differences are minimal.
Is cane sugar good for hummingbirds?
Yes, cane sugar can absolutely be used to make homemade nectar for hummingbirds. The differences between cane sugar and regular white sugar are subtle enough that either option is fine for hummingbirds.
According to hummingbird experts, the birds are not picky about whether their nectar is made from cane sugar or white sugar. Both cane sugar and white sugar contain sucrose, which hummingbirds easily digest and convert into energy.
The mild flavor and aroma of cane sugar does not deter hummingbirds in any way. In fact, some people claim that hummingbirds are actually more attracted to cane sugar solutions.
Nutrition profile
When it comes to nutrition, cane sugar and white sugar are nearly identical for hummingbirds. Per gram, both contain about:
| Nutrient | Cane sugar | White sugar |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 4 | 4 |
| Protein | 0 g | 0 g |
| Fat | 0 g | 0 g |
| Carbs | 1 g | 1 g |
Both types of sugar provide hummingbirds with the carbohydrates they need for energy. Neither has any protein or fat, but hummingbirds get those nutrients from small insects, not nectar.
Taste differences
The one difference between cane sugar and white sugar is flavor. Cane sugar has a hint of caramel-like flavor that white sugar lacks.
Many people claim that the subtle molasses notes of cane sugar result in a nectar that hummingbirds find tastier. But scientifically speaking, there is no evidence that hummingbirds have a preference for one over the other.
Hummingbirds have taste receptors for sweetness but do not appear to detect complex flavors. Their enjoyment of nectar seems to be related to the sugar content rather than the nuances of flavor.
What about other alternative sweeteners?
While cane sugar works well for hummingbird nectar, there are some other sugar substitutes that may not be good options:
- Honey – Honey can contain bacteria and fungi that could sicken hummingbirds. Only sterile commercial honey is considered safe.
- Maple syrup – Does not properly dissolve in water for use in hummingbird feeders. Too thick and syrupy.
- Agave nectar – Often contains higher concentrations of fructose than sucrose. Not ideal for hummingbirds.
- Artificial sweeteners – Lack calories and are not nutritious for hummingbirds.
For homemade nectar, plain white sugar or cane sugar remain the best choices. Other substitutes may cause harm or provide insufficient nutrition.
How to make cane sugar hummingbird nectar
Making cane sugar hummingbird food is easy! Here is one simple recipe to try:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup cane sugar
- 4 cups water
Instructions:
- Bring the water to a boil.
- Add the cane sugar and stir continuously until fully dissolved.
- Allow the solution to cool completely.
- Pour into a clean hummingbird feeder.
- Store unused portion in the refrigerator for 1-2 weeks.
A 1:4 ratio of sugar to water approximates the natural nectar that hummingbirds feed on. You can adjust the amounts as needed to make smaller or larger batches.
Be sure to clean your feeder every few days with hot water and replace the nectar. Keeping the feeder clean will prevent harmful mold growth.
Conclusion
Cane sugar is a great choice for making delicious and nutritious hummingbird nectar. The subtle caramel-like flavor does not deter hummingbirds at all – if anything, some enthusiasts believe it may be more enticing.
From a nutritional standpoint, cane sugar and regular white sugar are nearly identical. Both provide the carbohydrates that fuel a hummingbird’s super-charged metabolism.
Feel free to swap cane sugar into any favorite hummingbird nectar recipes. As long as you stick to a 1:4 sugar to water ratio, the hummers will happily sip away at this sweet treat!
