A hummingbird drink, also known as nectar, is made up of simple ingredients that provide hummingbirds with the energy they need to power their rapid wing beats and busy lives. The main ingredients in homemade nectar for hummingbirds are sugar and water.
Sugar
Sugar is the most important ingredient in hummingbird nectar. Hummingbirds get most of their energy from flower nectar in the wild, which is made up of sucrose, glucose and fructose. They have evolved to efficiently process sugars into energy. Since they have such high metabolisms and burn energy so quickly, they need access to lots of sugar throughout the day to survive.
White granulated sugar is commonly used to make hummingbird food at home. The white sugar provides carbohydrates and calories that hummingbirds need. Other types of sugar, like brown sugar, raw sugar and organic sugar can also be used, but white sugar is the most efficient and cost effective. Here are some key points about using sugar in hummingbird nectar:
- Use only plain white sugar, not sugar substitutes.
- Avoid raw, brown, turbinado or organic sugar which may contain levels of iron that can be harmful.
- Never use artificial sweeteners – they do not provide nutrition hummingbirds need.
- Add 1 part sugar to 4 parts water, which creates a 20% sugar solution.
Water
Water makes up the majority of homemade hummingbird nectar. Water comprises about 80% of the nectar solution. It serves to dilute the sugar concentration down to one that hummingbirds can digest and metabolize. Pure water provides the liquid that hummingbirds use like fuel for their bodies. Key points about the water used in hummingbird food:
- Use plain fresh water – tap or filtered water is best.
- Well water can contain minerals that may cause buildup in feeders.
- Avoid sparkling water or mineral water with added minerals.
- Never use sugar water meant for hummingbird feeders that contains red dye.
- Do not use artificial sweeteners or sugar substitutes.
The proper ratio of sugar to water is 1:4. This creates a 20% sugar concentration, which perfectly matches the concentration found in natural flower nectar. Going above 20% can harm hummingbird kidneys.
Optional Ingredients
There are a few additional optional ingredients that can be added to homemade hummingbird nectar. While not necessary, they can help provide nutrients and prevent spoilage.
- Electrolytes – A small pinch of electrolyte powder or salt can be added. This mimics the trace amounts of sodium and minerals found in natural nectar. It may help replace electrolytes lost by hummingbirds.
- Calcium – Some recipes add a tiny bit of nutritional yeast or eggshells for extra calcium, an important mineral for hummingbirds.
- Acidifier – A tiny bit of lemon juice or vinegar can help lower pH and prevent bacterial growth in the nectar.
- Red food coloring – While not needed, red dye makes the nectar look more attractive to hummingbirds. Avoid food coloring with iron.
When using any additional ingredients, it’s important to not overdo it. Very small amounts are sufficient. Too much can overwhelm the basic 20% sugar water composition that hummingbirds thrive on.
Storing Hummingbird Nectar
Fresh homemade hummingbird food only lasts a week or two before going bad. Here are some tips for proper storage:
- Refrigerate unused nectar to extend shelf life up to 2 weeks.
- Seal nectar in an airtight container and ensure no debris or insects can get in.
- Never leave nectar sitting out unrefrigerated for more than a day or two.
- Always check for signs of fermentation like cloudiness, bubbles or slimy film.
- Frozen nectar can last months, just be sure to thaw before use.
Nectar feeders themselves also need regular cleaning to prevent buildup of fungi and bacteria that can make hummingbirds sick. Every few days is ideal for cleaning with hot water or a mild vinegar solution. Change the nectar out completely every few days, or whenever it looks cloudy.
Simple Hummingbird Nectar Recipe
Making nectar at home for hummingbirds is easy. Here is a simple recipe:
Basic Homemade Hummingbird Nectar
- 1 part white granulated sugar
- 4 parts fresh water
- Pinch of salt (optional)
- Dash of red food coloring (optional)
Bring the water to a boil to ensure it is sterile. Add the sugar and food coloring if using and stir frequently until the sugar fully dissolves. Allow to fully cool before filling feeders. Store any extra in the refrigerator for 1-2 weeks. Change the feeder nectar out every few days.
This basic 20% sucrose sugar water is perfectly adapted to provide hummingbirds the nutrition they need. The simplicity of just sugar and water makes it affordable and easy while optimizing the health of hummingbirds.
Troubleshooting Hummingbird Nectar
If you notice any issues with homemade nectar going bad quickly or hummingbirds avoiding the feeder, here are some troubleshooting tips:
- Cloudy or smelly nectar – This is a sign of spoilage from yeast or bacteria. Change nectar and clean feeder.
- Insects/debris – Use a finer mesh on the feeder holes. Change nectar if contaminated.
- Fermentation – Lower ratio to 1:5 sugar to water. Ensure nectar stays refrigerated.
- Mineral buildup – Use distilled or filtered water. Soak feeder in mild vinegar.
- Bees around feeder – Use a bee guard and move feeder farther from flowering plants.
- Ants in feeder – Coat hanger wire with petroleum jelly to block ants.
Troubleshooting issues quickly can help provide hummingbirds a healthy and appealing nectar source. It also helps keep the feeder clean and free of bacteria or fungal growth.
Advantages of Homemade Nectar
There are several key advantages to making your own nectar over buying pre-made:
- Cost savings – Homemade is about 1/4 the price per ounce of commercial mixes.
- Control ingredients – You can regulate the exact formula of sugar, water and optional additives.
- Fresher – Nectar you just made isn’t sitting in a package for weeks or months.
- Better taste – Hummingbirds seem to prefer the taste of fresh homemade nectar.
- Fun activity – Making your own food engages kids and provides learning opportunities.
While there are ready-made powdered and concentrated nectar products available, making your own is just as easy and allows you to control the quality. You get the exact same 20% sucrose ratio provided in natural nectar.
FAQs
What is the best recipe for hummingbird food?
The best basic recipe is: 1 part white sugar dissolved into 4 parts water. This 20% sugar concentration matches natural flower nectar. You can add optional ingredients like electrolytes, calcium and red dye.
Should hummingbird food be boiled?
Boiling the water before mixing in sugar helps dissolve the sugar fully and ensures the nectar is sterile. Allow it to completely cool before filling feeders.
Do hummingbirds eat anything besides nectar?
Hummingbirds get most of their nutrition from nectar. They also eat small insects for protein. providing an insect feeder can supplement their diet.
Where should I place hummingbird feeders?
Hang feeders in shaded spots near natural flowers, trees and shrubs that provide shelter and perches. Avoid direct sunlight and place out of reach of predators.
Can hummingbirds see red?
Yes, hummingbirds are attracted to the color red. Adding red dye to nectar can help attract them but isn’t necessary.
Summary
Homemade hummingbird nectar made from simple white sugar and water provides the ideal nutrition profile hummingbirds need to thrive. The basic 20% sugar ratio closely matches the sucrose concentrations in natural flower nectar. While not complicated, following proper recipes and nectar care techniques helps ensure hummingbirds have a healthy and appealing food source readily available.
