Make Your Own Hummingbird Food
Making your own hummingbird food is simple and cost-effective. Dissolve 1 cup of table sugar in 4 cups of tap water. You can heat the water to help dissolve the sugar, but let it cool to room.
Skip Red Food Coloring
There is no need to add red food coloring to the sugar water. The red color on the feeder is enough to attract hummingbirds. Clear sugar water allows you to easily spot any changes or mold, ensuring the food is fresh and safe.
Put Out a Little Food at a Time
Ensure your hummingbirds consume all the food within 1-2 days. Adjust the amount of food based on the consumption rate, which can vary with the season. Partially filling feeders or taking some down if the food isn’t.
Replace Food Regularly
Replace the sugar water at least once a week, and more frequently in hot weather or sunny locations. During the peak summer heat, replacing it daily might be necessary. If the water appears cloudy or moldy, replace it immediately.
Clean Feeders Thoroughly
Clean your hummingbird feeders every time you refill them. Disassemble the feeder and wash it thoroughly with dish soap or in the dishwasher if it is safe. Use a small bottle brush to clean each feeder port, ensuring there is no mold.
Consider Feeder Placement
Place feeders in partial shade to keep the sugar water from heating up too much. Position feeders high off the ground and away from branches and railings to prevent predators like cats from reaching them. The goal is to feed hummingbirds.
Use Multiple Small Feeders
Hummingbirds are territorial and will defend food sources. Spread several smaller feeders around your yard to prevent one bird from dominating. This approach allows more birds to access the feeders and ensures better feeding.
Avoid Grease or Oil Near Feeders
Use ant moats to keep ants away from feeders, filling them with water. Ant moats are small cups hung above the feeder, preventing ants from reaching the sugar water. Regularly check.