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Feeding hummingbirds correctly is simple and rewarding.  Doing it incorrectly can be disappointing or worse, fatal for the hummingbirds.  Keys for success include following the simple 4 to 1 ratio recipe that mimics the sugar content of wildflower nectar and keeping the feeders clean.

Difficulties arise in feeding when we humans attempt to enhance this recipe.  Common mistakes include adding red dye.  The innocent thought is that hummingbirds will be attracted to the red syrup.  However, dye is unnecessary as most hummingbird feeders have some red built into their structure.  Again the feeder mimics the red flowers hummers love, so there’s no need to make the syrup red as well.  The jury is out on whether the dye can be harmful but if it is unnecessary, why risk it?

A second mistake we make is using honey in place of sugar in the honest thought that honey is more natural.  Unfortunately honey is a perfect culture for growing a mold and bacteria that are deadly to hummingbirds.  In this case sugar is much better and safer than honey.

Believe it or not, another potential deadly mistake innocent bird feeders make is using artificial sweeteners.  Think about it for a minute, have you every seen an overweight hummingbird?  Hummingbirds feed on syrup and flower nectar for the energy the sugar provides.  Flapping their wings an average of 60 times a second leaves no room for artificial sweeteners.

Finally the most important step that any backyard hummingbird fan MUST do is keeping the feeders clean.  In a hot climate and or during summer months feeders must be cleaned at least every three days.  In cooler climates or during winter months the feeders can be cleaned once a week.  If you cannot make this commitment to your birds, think twice before starting to feed.

All feeders will grow mold if left uncleaned.  The best models of feeders are quickly taken apart and easy to clean.  A beautiful model with no access to cleaning the inside will become a mere lawn ornament as the birds will not use it, or if they do, may become sick.

The best way to keep the feeders clean is by rinsing with vinegar and scrubbing with small brushes designed specifically for feeders.  Vinegar leaves no residue like soap can.  It’s high acidity also helps to clean any molds that may have begun to grow.  After cleansing with vinegar, rinse thoroughly.  A good rule of thumb is to rinse until you think they are clean, then rinse one more time.

A little effort will provide hours and years of enjoyment, as these feathered jewels of the air will grace your garden and linger well within the range of your binoculars. All it takes is a clean hummingbird feeder filled with a simple sugar solution.

Hummingbird Syrup

• 4 cups water
• 1 cup sugar

Bring water to a boil.
Add sugar.
Bring mixture back to a boil.
Remove the sauce pan from heat.
Cool, fill clean feeders.
Place extra syrup in a container and refrigerate for future use.