How to Make Hummingbird Mixture

Hummingbirds are tiny, wonderful birds that feed on sugar water and flower nectar. They enjoy feeding from hummingbird feeders, which are usually bright red in color to attract birds. Buying store-bought nectar is not necessary because these birds also enjoy homemade food. Hummingbird nectar is very simple to make and easy to store. Follow these simple steps and enjoy watching these beautiful birds fly around the yard.

Things You'll Need

• Pot
• 1 cup white sugar
• 4 cups water
• Clean gallon jug
• Vinegar
• Hummingbird feeder

Instructions

Easy Homemade Recipe

1. Bring four cups of water to a boil and remove it from the heat.

2. Add a cup of sugar to the water and stir until it is dissolved. Let the mixture cool.

3. Store the mixture in the refrigerator in a clearly marked container.

4. Clean out the hummingbird feeders using a mixture of vinegar and hot water. Fill clean feeders with the new mixture once it is completely cooled.

Tips & Warnings

• Boiling water will help remove chlorine from tap water and make it easier to dissolve sugar. Store leftover nectar in clean milk jugs clearly marked "hummingbird food." Hummingbird nectar will be safe in the fridge for up to two weeks. Store nectar in a container that is easy to pour, because most hummingbird feeders have very small openings. You may also heat water in a microwave-safe bowl instead of boiling it on the stove.

• Sugar water can ferment when left outside for too long. Be sure to replace nectar weekly. Replace the mixture immediately if it becomes cloudy. Do not add food coloring or honey to the mixture. This can cause the mixture to ferment more quickly. Be sure to use caution when handling hot water. Use oven mitts when handling the hot pot.

References

• Homemade Hummingbird Recipe
• Hummingbird Nectar Recipe