How to Make Hummingbird Feeders

Hummingbirds may be tiny, but they are extremely territorial and quickly claim any feeder you place in your yard. Placing several feeders in your yard not only cuts down on the aggressive battles for dominance at the feeder, it attracts more hummingbirds to your yard as well. Purchasing multiple feeders can be expensive. Fortunately, hummingbirds will feed happily from any container that provides them with an ample supply of nectar. Making your own feeders from recycled containers is a quick and easy way to expand your collection of hummingbird feeders and attract more birds at the same time.

Things You'll Need

• Recycled jars
• Drill
• Nail
• Wire (copper, floral)

Instructions

1. Look for decorative bottles or jars that you can use for hummingbird feeders. Condiment jars are an excellent source and come in a wide range of sizes and shapes. Although you can use open mouthed jars by suspending from a tree branch, those with tight fitting caps are the best choice.

2. Wash the jars in hot soapy water to remove any food residue. Rinse well with hot water to remove traces of soap and to kill any germs on the bottles. Place bottles in a pot of boiling water to sterilize them, if they have been sitting or if you have concerns. Allow to air dry.

3. Drill a 1/8- to ¼-inch hole in the center of the cap. If you are working with plastic caps, you can heat a nail over a flame and melt a hole in the cover. This offers the added advantage of creating a slight lip that prevents nectar from dripping from the feeder.

4. Wrap wire around the rim of the jar leaving 6 to 8 inches for hanging. Copper wire makes an attractive hanger, but any wire will do.

5. Fill the container with hummingbird food and hang from a tree branch or railing in an area that is shaded from the afternoon sun.