What’s the best nectar recipe for my hummingbird feeder?

Boil 4 parts water and add 1 part plain, white table sugar. Stir and allow the mixture to cool. When the nectar is room temperature, fill your clean hummingbird feeder. This syrup mixture can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

Should I add red dye?

Never use red dyes or food coloring, as they are not healthy for hummingbirds.

Can I use honey instead of table sugar?

Never use honey when making your nectar mix. Honey attracts bees and can grow black fungus that will cause a fatal liver and tongue disease in hummingbirds.

How often should I refill my hummingbird feeder?

Every three or four days, remove your feeder and discard any unused syrup. Flush with hot tap water. When the temperature is over 90°F, you may need to change the nectar every two days. Keep an eye on the sugar solution; if it turns cloudy, it’s spoiled and needs to be replaced.

How often do I need to clean my hummingbird feeder?

At every filling, flush the feeder with hot tap water. At least once a month, clean the feeder thoroughly with a weak bleach solution (1/4 cup bleach to one gallon of water). Soak feeder parts, rinse thoroughly and refill. As an alternative, a vinegar solution can be used. Don’t use soap; it can leave a residue.

My hummingbirds are fighting! How can I keep the peace?

Hummingbirds are very territorial and they will chase an interloper away from a nectar source. If possible, provide another hummingbird feeder located a suitable distance away. Lots of hummingbird-friendly landscaping helps, too.

Can you tell me a few more hummingbird facts?

Hummingbirds live about five years.

Hummingbirds can dive at speeds up to 60 mph.

Normal flight speed for a hummingbird is between 25 and 30 mph.

Hummingbirds have split tongues which they fold into a tube when feeding.