Hummingbird feeder mixture is more commonly known as nectar.
It is easily made by boiling four parts water to one part sugar cane. You should then completely cool nectar before putting in feeder. Unused nectar may be stored for up to three weeks in the refrigerator.
During cool weather nectar placed in a feeder can last up to a week. When weather drops below freezing, a three part water to one part sugar nectar solution may be used to keep from freezing down to approximately 27 degrees Fahrenheit. Alternatively, feeders should be pulled in and stored in the refrigerator (or your garage) at night, and/or swapped during the day (with a feeder in the refrigerator).
During hotter weather, nectar will need to be replaced every 2-4 days. A five part water to one part sugar may be used to slow down the spoiling process for the nectar.
In order to keep the hummingbirds happy, feeders should be thoroughly cleaned with hot water each time the nectar is changed or re-filled. Once a month, a diluted bleach solution should be used to soak the feeder for an hour. Do not clean your feeders with soap or place in the dishwasher.
Do not use red food coloring and do not use honey, as there is no study that shows any benefit and using honey can be fatal.
Feeders should be kept up for two to four weeks after the last hummingbird has been spotted for any straggling migratory hummingbirds. Occasionally, some locations may have a hummingbird staying over the winter. Keep your eyes peeled!
Would you rather use a commercial hummingbird nectar? Check out our Hummingbird Food page.
