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The How: Hummer Feeding


First, the No-No’s Using the wrong kinds of sugar solutions or leaving moldy feeders out can kill hummingbirds and their babies Now, the how-to’s

Change the sugar solution often. Clean and put only enough fresh sugar solution in your feeders to last one to two days in warm weather, or sooner if it looks cloudy or develops mold. Keeping feeders in the shade slows down fermentation and mold growth. But, feeders placed in the sun are more easily seen and seem to attract more individual hummingbirds.

Use only vinegar and water to clean feeders. A specially designed sponge or brush can help. If you use bleach as a last resort, follow-up by cleaning the bleach out with a vinegar and water solution. 

Perfect Hummer Food Recipe: One part sugar to four parts water – stir until sugar is dissolved.

Measure examples: (a) One cup of sugar to four cups of water; or (b) 3/4 cup sugar to 3 cups water; or (c) 1/2 cup sugar to 2 cups of water.

For larger batches, bring solution to a boil to kill bacteria and slow spoilage – allow to cool. Extra solution may be refrigerated if used within one week. If feeders are cleaned and filled with freshly-made, hot water, sugar solution every day or two, then it may not be necessary to bring the solution to a boil. If you plan to store solution for two or more days, boiling is a must.





Tags : hummingbirds, pollinators, urban garden


← The Where: Feeder Placement – Oh, Decisions, Decisions
The When: Hummingbird Feeding Times →
