The Best Homemade Hummingbird Nectar Recipe

As life goes, things have been pretty busy around here. Chaos is common, but I feel recently it’s been more than normal. I’ve been working almost daily on refinishing the deck and creating a pretty cool outdoor space. It’s been such a challenge since it’s rained almost daily around here!

In the interim, I’ve been developing our outdoor garden. Recently, I’ve added a bird feeder as well as a hummingbird feeder. Since hummingbirds start showing up in Maryland around late April and start mating shortly there after.

Fun Facts:

The hummingbird has been a symbol of versatility and optimism. Since their wings beat at a rate of 12 beats per second it is the definition of chaos. While it’s capable of flying in all directions, even backwards, they symbolize ones ability to adapt and change direction despite the challenges thrown their way. These little guys can fly up to 2,000 miles to get to their destination; they define determination.

Since the hummingbird has such a long migration, its metabolic needs are very high. It will eat up to half its body weight in sugar a day. That’s why they are so attracted to the nectar provided in hummingbird feeders.

Hummingbirds use two senses to find food; their eyesight and their taste. It’s a known fact that hummingbirds are attracted to the color red, hence why most feeders are red. However, the red dye in classic hummingbird nectar is actually harmful for these little guys. I make our own nectar here at home, and make sure to change it regularly.

The Recipe

What You'll Need:

1c White Sugar
4c Distilled Water

Placing the water in a saucepan, bring to a boil over high heat. Once a rolling boil is achieved, remove from heat and stir in the sugar. Once the sugar is fully dissolved, let cool. Once room temperature, fill glass feeder. Store leftovers in refrigerator.

How To Maintain Your Feeder

I also make sure our hummingbird feeders are glass due to sanitary reasons. Never wash out your feeders with soap, bleach, or any other harmful cleaner. Always use a combination of distilled water and white vinegar in a 2:1 ratio. Let soak for 10-15 minutes and then rinse thoroughly.

I clean my feeders regularly and make sure no mold is present. Now, I’ve read often that you can perform a bleach bath or a soap and water bath to treat mold buildup. Honestly, I dislike both these harmful methods. Hummingbirds systems are delicate, and any residue leftover may affect their digestive systems and can cause death. I’ve also heard that hummingbirds can sense any residue, which would render your feeder useless. I always err on the side of caution! If your feeder is moldy or hazy, it’s best to just replace it.

{I’m in no way an expert, and these are merely my own educated opinions.}

I have such fond memories of our hummingbird feeder as a child and even in my last home. I can’t wait to see what this little guy attracts! I’ll keep ya’ll posted.

Cheers!