How to Make Simple Hummingbird Nectar

Hummingbirds consume nectar as their primary food source, regularly consuming half their body weight every day—and in hot weather, they may require even more. Nectar, which is naturally secreted by flowers, is a low-nutrient food, so hummingbirds supplement it by also eating insects.

Many hummingbirds, such as the ruby-throated hummingbird, migrate with the seasons in search of food sources. Others, like Anna's hummingbird and Allen's hummingbird, remain in one location year-round; they rely on flower nectar from plants like the trumpet honeysuckle and the bottle brush, as well as humans' homemade hummingbird food set out in hummingbird feeders. Human-made hummingbird food is nothing more than sugar water, which the hummingbirds drink from glass feeders with their long tongues.

Making artificial hummingbird nectar can help sustain a population of hummingbirds throughout the year. Natural nectar can be in short supply during the winter, and during the hottest parts of summer, the little birds may need an extraordinary amount of food to maintain homeostasis. Feeding hummingbirds with an easy recipe involving warm water and white sugar can be a low-effort way to support the population in your area.

The standard hummingbird nectar recipe requires only two ingredients: water and sugar. Use spring water or plain tap water and white sugar. When possible, avoid organic sugar, raw sugar or brown sugar, as these may contain too much iron for the average hummingbird. Never make hummingbird food using artificial sweeteners; simple table sugar is all you need. Avoid using red dye in your bird food recipe, as it is not healthy for hummingbirds. A red feeder (usually with plastic yellow flowers or red flowers) is sufficient for attracting hummingbirds.

To make a DIY hummingbird food recipe, mix one part sugar (white granulated sugar is best) with three parts water. Stir the sugar directly into warm water until it dissolves, creating homemade hummingbird nectar. You can also pour the sugar into a saucepan filled with boiling water, which will allow it to dissolve much faster. However, take care to let the water cool before pouring it in a clean hummingbird feeder. You should never serve hot water to a bird; first allow it to cool to room temperature.

Clean your hummingbird feeder between refills. Use simple dish soap and rinse it thoroughly. Do not use bleach, as any residual bleach could poison the birds.

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