Hummingbirds are amazing little creatures that capture the imagination with their diminutive size, iridescent colors, and remarkable flying skills. These tiny birds have extremely high metabolisms and must consume up to twice their body weight in nectar each day in order to fuel their constant activity. Providing food specifically formulated for hummingbirds is an excellent way to attract them to your yard. The Cornell Lab of Ornithology, based at Cornell University, recommends the following simple recipe for hummingbird nectar that will provide these birds with the energy they need.
Ingredients
The Cornell Lab hummingbird food recipe requires just two ingredients: water and white granulated sugar. You’ll also need a container to mix up the nectar and a feeder to hold it for the hummingbirds.
Water
Tap water is perfectly fine to use for hummingbird food. There’s no need to use filtered or bottled water. However, you don’t want to use water that has gone stagnant or has an off taste, as this can negatively impact the quality of the nectar. Just let fresh tap water run for a minute or two to flush out any impurities before mixing up a batch.
Sugar
Plain white granulated sugar is ideal for hummingbird food. Do not use brown sugar, agave nectar, honey, or any other sugar substitutes. Hummingbirds’ digestive systems are specially adapted to process sucrose, which is table sugar. Other types of sugar can cause digestive upset. Make sure to use regular granulated sugar and not powdered or confectioners sugar when mixing up hummingbird nectar.
Nectar Mixing Container
For mixing up batches of hummingbird food, you can use any clean glass, plastic, or metal container. 1-quart size works well. Don’t use anything reactive like unlined copper or cast iron. Glass and stainless steel are good nonreactive options. Be sure to wash the container thoroughly before mixing each new batch.
Feeder
There are many different types of hummingbird feeders available. Choose one that is easy to clean, made of nonreactive materials, able to hold at least 8 ounces of nectar, and designed in a way that hummingbirds can easily access the nectar. Feeders with red accents seem to be particularly attractive to hummingbirds.
Recipe
The Cornell Lab recommends a basic 1:4 ratio of sugar to water for hummingbird nectar. This proportion mimics the natural nectar found in flowering plants that attract hummingbirds. The recipe is extremely simple:
Ingredients:
- 1 part white granulated sugar
- 4 parts water
Instructions:
- Fill your nectar mixing container with 4 cups of water
- Add 1 cup of white granulated sugar
- Stir continuously until the sugar fully dissolves
- Allow to cool to room temperature before filling feeders
This will result in 4 cups of delicious hummingbird nectar. The nectar can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just shake or stir before filling your feeder to remix any sugar that settles on the bottom.
Tips
Here are some helpful tips from Cornell to get the most out of your hummingbird nectar:
- Never add red food coloring to the nectar. This provides no benefit and can actually be harmful to hummingbirds.
- Avoid using honey or any other sweeteners besides plain white sugar.
- Do not use artificial sweeteners.
- Refrigerate unused nectar for up to 1 week. Discard any that looks cloudy or develops mold.
- Thoroughly clean feeders before refilling with fresh nectar. Soak in hot water or dilute bleach solution.
- Change nectar every 2-3 days in hot weather to prevent spoilage.
- Use boiling water to dissolve sugar when making larger batches.
- Consider making a weaker 10% solution (1 cup sugar per 10 cups water) early and late in the season when less food is available.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it okay to use organic or raw sugar?
No, it’s best to use plain white refined cane sugar. Other types don’t properly dissolve in cool water.
Can I use honey or agave nectar instead of sugar?
No, hummingbirds can develop health issues if fed something other than sucrose-based nectar.
What ratio of sugar to water is ideal?
A 1:4 ratio of sugar to water is recommended. This provides the right nutritional balance.
How often should I change the nectar?
Every 2-3 days in hot weather. In cooler conditions, nectar can be left out for 4-5 days.
Is it okay to add red dye?
No red dye is necessary and can actually be harmful. Just use plain white sugar.
Can I flavor the nectar?
It’s best not to add any flavors. Hummingbirds are adapted to simple sucrose-only nectar.
What is the minimum/maximum percentage of sugar to use?
10-20% concentration is recommended. Too weak or too strong can cause health issues.
How do I store unused nectar?
Leftover nectar can be refrigerated for up to 1 week. Discard any that appears cloudy or moldy.
Conclusion
Preparing hummingbird food at home using refined white sugar and water mixed to a 1:4 ratio is easy and cost effective. This simple sucrose-based nectar provides hummingbirds with the nutritional balance they need. Following Cornell’s recommended recipe and tips will ensure your homemade nectar fuels these energetic birds safely throughout the season as they visit your feeders. Offering fresh nectar on a regular basis and keeping feeders scrubbed clean is the key to successfully attracting hummingbirds. With a quality feeder and fresh nectar, you’ll be rewarded with the joy of seeing these lively feathered visitors busy at your feeder.
