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Make Your Own Hummingbird Nectar
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This hummingbird nectar is easy and inexpensive to make. You'll end up with a sweet, syrupy nectar that will attract these beautiful birds to your yard or garden.
serves/makes:
ready in:
under 30 minutes
under 30 minutes
ingredients
4 parts water
1 part sugar
directions
Combine the water and sugar in a heavy saucepan over medium-high heat. Cook, stirring frequently, until the mixture boils and the sugar dissolves.
Remove the pan from the heat and let it cool completely.
Fill the hummingbird feeder with the mixture.
recipe tips
Use only white granulated sugar and water to make hummingbird nectar.
Avoid using honey, molasses, or artificial sweeteners in the nectar.
Clean the feeder regularly with hot water and mild soap to prevent contamination.
Hang the feeder in a shaded area to prevent the nectar from spoiling quickly in the sun.
Monitor the feeder daily to check for signs of mold or contamination.
Replace any nectar that appears cloudy or discolored immediately.
Attract more hummingbirds by planting nectar-producing flowers in your garden.
Consider placing multiple feeders in different locations to accommodate more hummingbirds.
common recipe questions
Can I add food coloring so it looks like commercial hummingbird nectar?
Please do not!! Commercial hummingbird nectar is produced SAFELY for hummingbirds. Food coloring or any red-dye can potentially harm the birds. Please only use water and real sugar.
What is hummingbird nectar?
Hummingbird nectar is a sweet syrupy liquid used to attract hummingbirds to feeders in your yard or garden.
Can I use brown sugar instead of white sugar?
It is best to use white granulated sugar as it closely mimics the natural nectar that hummingbirds seek.
Do I need to boil the mixture when making hummingbird nectar?
Boiling the mixture helps to dissolve the sugar completely, providing a clear nectar. It also helps to prolong the shelf life of the nectar.
How long does it take for the nectar to cool?
Allow the nectar to cool completely before filling the hummingbird feeder. This usually takes about 30-45 minutes.
Should I refrigerate the excess nectar?
Store any excess nectar in a clean container in the refrigerator for up to 1-2 weeks. Remember to bring it to room temperature before filling the feeder.
Can I use artificial sweeteners instead of sugar?
It is not recommended to use artificial sweeteners as they provide no nutritional value to the hummingbirds and can be harmful to them.
How often should I change the hummingbird nectar?
It is recommended to change the nectar every 2-3 days, especially in hot weather, to prevent fermentation or the growth of harmful bacteria.
Why is it important to use a clean feeder?
A clean feeder helps prevent the growth of mold and bacteria.
How do I attract more hummingbirds?
Planting a variety of brightly colored flowers and providing a water source in addition to the feeder can attract more hummingbirds to your yard.
How can I prevent ants from getting to the feeder?
Use an ant moat or apply a barrier of petroleum jelly to the feeder hook to deter ants from reaching the nectar.
Is it safe to use hot water to clean the feeder?
Use hot water and a small brush to clean the feeder thoroughly. Rinse it well to remove any soap residue before refilling it with fresh nectar.
tools needed
Measuring Cups: For accurately measuring the water and sugar needed for the nectar.
Heavy Saucepan: For cooking the water and sugar together to create the syrupy nectar.
Stirring Spoon: For stirring the mixture in the saucepan until the sugar dissolves.
Hummingbird Feeder: To hold and dispense the nectar for the hummingbirds once it has been made.
Patience: Birds might not flock to your yard immediately, so be patient while waiting for them to discover your sweet concoction!
nutrition data
Nutritional data has not been calculated yet.
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reviews & comments
Could I use a little beet juice to color the water?
We don't recommend adding anything additional to the nectar recipe. While beet juice may not be harmful to the birds, they may also not be interested in the mixture if you alter it.