Hummingbird Nectar & Feeders

Nectar feeders can also be used as a supplemental food source for hummingbirds.

A simple hummingbird nectar can be made by combining 1 part granulated sugar to 4 parts water in a saucepan. Bring the water to a boil and stir to dissolve the sugar. Let the mixture cool completely before filling feeders. Red dye or food coloring should NOT be added to your nectar, as it is not healthy for hummingbirds.

Never use honey to make nectar since it can cause bacterial and fungal diseases in hummingbirds.

Extra sugar water can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

Be sure to thoroughly clean your feeders and replace the nectar every three to four days because our Florida heat can cause rapid bacterial growth in the nectar solution which is potentially fatal to the hummingbirds.

Use only vinegar and water to clean feeders. Soap or bleach traces left in feeders, even after thorough rinsing, can harm hummers.

Hummingbird feeders are available in many sizes and shapes. Choose feeders that are easy to dismantle and clean. Since hummingbirds are attracted to color, choose feeders with red or orange parts or trim.

Hummingbird feeders will readilly attract ants. The best solution to this problem is to use ant guards or ant moats. Ant moats are usually small containers of water that are either built into the feeder or hang above the feeder. Make sure you clean and refill the water in your ant moat when you refill your feeder.