How to Make Hummingbird Nectar

Make your own nectar to feed birds

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This formula is appropriate for both hummingbird and oriole feeders. Experts believe that it closely approximates the sweetness and consistency of the nectar naturally found in flowers.

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Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

Hummingbird Feeder Cleaning Brushes
Stirring Spoons
Granulated Sugar
Water
Hummingbird Feeders
Measuring cups
Oriole Feeders

Step1

Mix 1/4 c. sugar and 1 c. water in a cup or jar.

Step2

Stir briskly with a spoon until the sugar is completely dissolved.

Step3

Pour the mixture into a clean hummingbird or oriole feeder.

Step4

Cover any unused nectar and refrigerate for up to five days.

Tips & Warnings

Mixing nectar in a measuring cup allows easy pouring into feeders.
Change nectar in feeders every five to seven days - more often in warm weather.
Be sure all utensils are clean and dry before making nectar.
For larger feeders, simply increase water and sugar using a ratio of four parts water to one part sugar.
Artificial dyes, honey and sugar other than white table sugar should not be used in nectar feeders.
Avoid hanging feeders in direct sunlight, which will cause nectar to spoil more quickly.

Comments

MaddHatter said

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on 7/15/2008 This mix has proven very well received by both ruby-throated hummers and by Baltimore Oriole's, who kept coming back to the hummingbird feeder, so I added a "deck" so they have a place to land when they need a quick sip to wash down the grape jelly. I save the extra in ice-cube trays in the freezer for a quick melt and fill-up when needed AND no mold on the extra.