Hummingbirds are attracted to the color red and will frequent flowers, feeders, and nectar that contains red pigments. While artificial red dyes can be used, natural options are safer for hummingbirds. The most common and effective natural red dye used in hummingbird nectar is made from the anthers of flowers.
Why Hummingbirds Are Attracted to Red
Hummingbirds have excellent color vision compared to other birds. They can see into the ultraviolet spectrum and have four types of cones in their eyes that allow them to perceive color very well. This explains why they target flowers, nectar feeders, and other objects that are bright red in color.
Scientists believe hummingbirds are highly attracted to the color red because it sends a signal that there is an energy-rich food source nearby. The pigments that create red colors in flowers, fruits, and other natural objects are indicators of sweet nectar or ripe fruits that provide essential sugars hummingbirds need to survive.
Putting red coloring in artificial nectar and on feeders targets this instinctual response in hummingbirds. The striking red color grabs their attention and lets them know the nectar is for them.
Using Natural Flower Pigments
While artificial dyes can tint things bright red, natural options are healthier for hummingbirds. Food-grade dyes or sauces may not necessarily be toxic but still contain unnecessary additives. All-natural flower pigments are a safer choice.
Many red flowers that attract hummingbirds contain anthocyanin pigments in their petals and anthers. Anthocyanins are water-soluble plant compounds that provide the vivid red, blue, and purple colors in flowers and fruits. They have antioxidant benefits and are safe for human and animal consumption.
To make natural red dye from flowers, all you need to do is boil or soak various red flower parts to extract the anthocyanin pigments. Good options include:
- Cardinal flower anthers
- Red salvia blossoms
- Canna lily flowers
- Hibiscus flowers
- Roselle flowers
The most recommended source is the pollen-producing anthers from cardinal flowers and other bright red blooms frequented by hummingbirds. The anthers provide a strong, natural red dye without any flavors that could alter the nectar’s taste.
Making Anthocyanin Flower Dye
Here is a simple process for making anthocyanin hummingbird nectar dye using cardinal flower anthers:
- Harvest several fresh anthers from bright red cardinal flowers or a similar species.
- Place the anthers in a small jar and add just enough hot water to cover them.
- Allow the jar with the anthers and hot water to steep for 30-60 minutes.
- Strain the liquid through a coffee filter or cheesecloth to remove the anthers.
- Add the filtered red liquid to your nectar mixture. About 1-2 tablespoons per cup gives a vivid red color.
- Store any extra dye in the fridge for 1-2 weeks.
This red cardinal flower dye can be mixed into any homemade or store-bought nectar. The anthocyanins will tint the nectar red without negatively impacting the flavor. Avoid using more dye than necessary, as too much pigment could leave an aftertaste. A little goes a long way!
Why Use Natural Dye
Here are some of the top reasons to use red flower anther dye instead of artificial dyes:
- Safety: Anthocyanin dyes are 100% natural and edible. Artificial dyes may be low risk but still have unnecessary additives.
- Sustainability: Flower dyes can be made from locally grown flowers and require minimal processing.
- Flavor: Natural dyes integrate seamlessly without altering the nectar’s taste.
- APPEAL: Vibrant flower pigments are just as eye-catching as artificial dyes.
- Simplicity: Flower dyes are easy to make at home using materials from the garden.
If you want your homemade nectar to look and taste its absolute best for curious hummingbirds, stick with nature’s solution. Anthocyanin-rich anthers provide the safest, most sustainable, and optimal red hue.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use beet juice as red dye?
Beet juice can be used to color hummingbird nectar red, but it has some downsides. The earthy, strong flavor of beets will significantly alter the nectar’s taste, and too much beet juice can make it unpalatable. It also has lower dye content compared to flower anthers. For these reasons, flower anthers are a much better choice.
Is food coloring safe for hummingbirds?
Food dyes approved for human consumption are likely safe for hummingbirds when used in small amounts. However, artificial dyes provide no health benefits and may contain unnecessary additives. Natural dyes made from edible flower anthers are safer and healthier for hummingbirds.
Can I use hibiscus flowers?
Yes, hibiscus flowers can be used to make red dye for hummingbird nectar. The flowers contain high levels of anthocyanin pigments. However, some people detect a subtle floral taste when using hibiscus. Cardinal flower anthers provide vibrant color without altering the nectar’s flavor.
How long does the dye last?
The red dye will last 1-2 weeks refrigerated before the color starts to fade. For best color, make a fresh batch of dye when mixing up new nectar. The dye can also be frozen for longer storage.
Does natural dye change the nutritional value?
No, natural flower pigments like anthocyanins do not negatively impact the nutritional value of standard nectar. The only ingredients that should be used are water, white granulated sugar, and small amounts of the red dye.
Conclusion
Hummingbirds are hardwired to target flowers, nectars, and feeders that are bright red in color. This attraction is due to red signaling an energy-rich food source. While artificial dyes can create red-hued nectar, natural options are optimal.
Extracting anthocyanin flower pigments from the anthers of cardinal flowers or other red blooms provides a safe, sustainable dye that won’t alter the nectar’s flavor. Follow a simple process of steeping the anthers to infuse the clear liquid with vivid red color attractive to nearby hummingbirds.
Switching to natural red dyes made from edible flower parts ensures your DIY hummingbird nectar is healthy, appealing, and irresistible to these energetic, beautiful birds.
