Hummingbird seed mix is a special nectar replacement made specifically for hummingbirds. It typically contains a mixture of different tiny seeds that provide the calories and nutrients that hummingbirds need. The most common ingredients found in store-bought hummingbird food mixes are:
Niger Seed
Niger seed is one of the main ingredients in many hummingbird seed mixes. Niger seeds are small, black oilseeds that come from the niger plant. Niger seeds contain a lot of fat and protein which provides hummingbirds with the high energy they need to power their rapid wing beats and metabolisms. Niger seeds have a mild, nutty flavor that hummingbirds find very attractive.
Safflower
Safflower is another small, oilseed that is commonly added to hummingbird mixes. Like niger seed, safflower seeds are rich in fats and protein. Safflower has a more neutral flavor than some other seeds, so it helps balance out stronger flavors in the mix. Safflower is bright white in color, so it helps make the mix visually appealing as well.
Nyjer
Nyjer seed, sometimes called thistle seed, is often a key part of hummingbird food. Nyjer seeds are smaller and thinner than niger and safflower seeds. They come from the nyjer plant, which is a type of thistle. Nyjer has a high oil content to fuel hummingbirds’ metabolisms. It has a mild, nutty taste that hummingbirds find very tasty.
Millet
Millet is a grass seed that is small enough for hummingbirds to eat. There are several types of millet including white proso, red, and golden. Millet has a mild flavor and provides carbs, protein, fat, and fiber. Adding some millet to a mix provides variety.
Canary Grass Seed
Canary grass seed, also known as canary seed, is sometimes included in hummingbird mixes. Canary seeds are relatively small and contain good amounts of protein and carbohydrates. They have a mild taste that most hummingbirds seem to enjoy in small amounts as part of a balanced mix.
Flax Seed
For added nutrition, some mixes include flax seeds which are rich in healthy fats and fiber. Flax seeds are larger than nyjer or safflower seeds so they are typically ground into smaller pieces. Flax provides omega-3 fatty acids that help support hummingbird metabolism and health.
Sesame Seeds
Sesame seeds may also be incorporated into some hummingbird seed blends. Like flax seeds, sesame seeds tend to be larger so they are often chopped into smaller bits. Sesame seeds provide additional fats, protein, and minerals.
Corn Grits
Finely ground corn or corn grits are sometimes mixed into hummingbird blends. Corn adds carbohydrates for energy and has a sweet flavor that attracts hummingbirds. Corn grits also help give the mix some texture.
Dried Fruit
Small pieces of dried fruits are often added to give hummingbird food extra flavor and natural sweetness. Some commonly used fruits are raisins, cranberries, cherries, bananas, apples, pineapple, papaya, and berries. Fruit bits provide an energy boost from natural sugars.
Artificial Sweeteners
Many commercial mixes include small amounts of artificial sweeteners like sucrose or high fructose corn syrup. Sweeteners are added to increase the nectar-like appeal of the food. However, too much added sugar can promote fungal growth.
Food Coloring
Red or other colors are sometimes added to hummingbird mixes. While the added colorants are safe for birds, they do not provide any nutritional benefit. Color is added mainly for visual appeal to human buyers.
Vitamins and Minerals
In addition to seeds, some mixes have added vitamins and minerals to supplement the natural nutrition in the seeds. Commonly added vitamins include vitamin A, vitamin D3, vitamin E, and vitamin C. Mineral supplements like calcium carbonate and zinc are also sometimes included.
Preservatives
To help maintain freshness, some preservatives may be added to commercial hummingbird food mixes. Common preservatives used include antioxidants like citric acid, sodium phosphate, and ethoxyquin. As with any additive, only food-grade preservatives suitable for birds should be used.
Absence of Insect Parts
It’s also important to note that while nectar is a key part of a hummingbird’s diet, they also need insects and spiders to provide sufficient protein. However, pre-made seed mixes will not contain any insect parts or other animal proteins. When feeding commercial mixes, hummingbird owners need to supplement with a separate protein source.
Typical Nutritional Content
The overall nutritional content of a hummingbird seed mix can vary depending on the exact ingredients and ratios. But most mixes will provide the following general nutrients:
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Protein | 15-25% |
| Fat | 20-40% |
| Carbohydrates | 45-60% |
| Fiber | 5-15% |
| Moisture | 8-12% |
These percentages represent a good balance of fat and carbs to fuel a hummingbird’s energy needs from the seeds, along with modest amounts of protein and fiber for growth and gut health. By mixing different small seeds and other ingredients, manufacturers can achieve these targeted nutritional values.
Benefits of Seed Mixes
The main benefits of using a specialized pre-made hummingbird seed mix rather than a single seed type include:
- Provides nutritional variety and balance
- Incorporates seeds of appropriate small size
- Includes appealing tastes and textures
- Offer consistent results and less work than mixing your own
- Often formulated for optimal freshness
By combining several nutritious ingredients into precise formulations, good hummingbird seed mixes aim to provide complete and balanced nutrition in a form that hummingbirds inherently enjoy.
Potential Drawbacks
There are a few potential disadvantages to pre-packaged commercial hummingbird seed mixes to be aware of:
- Higher cost than single-seed options like plain niger seeds
- Unknown quality or purity of mix contents
- Added sugars could promote bacterial or fungal growth
- Lack of insect protein
To avoid issues with pre-mixed foods, purchase high quality brands, check mix contents, and supplement with insects. Also replace mixes frequently to ensure freshness.
Homemade Mixes
Many people prefer to make their own custom hummingbird seed mixes. This allows control over the exact ingredients and proportions. Some popular homemade mix recipes include:
Basic Homemade Hummingbird Mix
- 2 cups niger seeds
- 1 cup safflower seeds
- 1⁄2 cup flax seeds
- 1⁄4 cup sesame seeds
- 1⁄4 cup dried fruit bits
High Protein Hummingbird Blend
- 2 cups niger seeds
- 1 cup roasted soybeans
- 1⁄2 cup mealworms
- 1⁄4 cup dried cranberries
- 2 tablespoons peanut butter
When mixing your own, experiment with different proportions of seeds, fruits, proteins, and other natural ingredients to find a recipe your local hummingbirds respond to best.
FAQs
Why are hummingbird mixes red?
Hummingbird mixes are often dyed red with food coloring. While it doesn’t affect taste, bright red color helps attract hummingbirds to the food. Red also hides dirt and debris that could accumulate over time.
Should I use artificial nectar for hummingbirds?
Artificial powdered nectar mixes provide an alternative to seed and sugar water. However, they may contain preservatives and lack protein. Seed mixes with some fruit are usually healthier if supplemented with live insects.
What is black oil sunflower suitable for hummingbirds?
Black oil sunflower seeds are too large and difficult for tiny hummingbirds to open and eat. Smaller seeds like nyjer or niger are better seed options.
Can I use plain white sugar?
Yes, plain white granulated sugar dissolved in water is fine for hummingbirds. Avoid raw sugar, honey, or artificial sweeteners which may harbor harmful bacteria.
Conclusion
Hummingbird seed mixes typically contain small, nutritious seeds like niger, safflower, and nyjer along with fruit, sweeteners, vitamins, and minerals. The various ingredients are designed to attract hummingbirds and provide complete, balanced nutrition in each bite-sized seed. While mixes offer convenience, homemade blends allow you to control the contents. Supplement pre-made mixes with protein sources like mealworms or crickets. Overall, specialized hummingbird seed mixes can provide an effective food source as part of a varied diet for meeting hummingbirds’ high energy needs.
