Bacteria and mold can grow and stick to feeder parts so take it apart and thoroughly clean every surface, inside and out, before refilling. When diluted with water, honey can harbor dangerous bacteria and fungus.Ĭhange the sugar water every few days.
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Also, do not use red dye, which can harm birds after all, nectar is clear. Refined white table sugar is sucrose, which most closely mimics natural nectar.ĭon’t make more than hummingbirds can eat in a day or two so nectar doesn’t spoil.
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It might seem counterintuitive, but skip using organic, natural or raw sugars, which contain iron that may be harmful to birds. The best recipe is to combine a quarter cup of plain white sugar with one cup of boiling water. In coastal areas or the Pacific Northwest, some hummingbirds remain all winter so keep your feeders full!Ī simple solution of sugar and water is all hummingbirds need. Day length and other factors cause birds to start the long journey south and feeders will not cause hummers to delay migration (in fact, it will help those heading south from more northern locations). It’s fine to keep your feeders up late into the fall or early winter in northern climates. But by mid-summer, after the chicks fledge, more birds appear, and they’ll also feed in greater numbers as they prepare for the fall migration. Males are territorial and may drive away other males during spring nesting season. Don’t worry if you don’t see many birds at first. Male hummingbirds return earlier than females. Sooner is always better than later to assist migrating birds or early arrivals. FAQs When do I put out a hummingbird feeder?ĭepending on where you live, put out your hummingbird feeders any time from early March to early May, basically in early to mid-spring. Our budget pick, First Nature Hummingbird Feeder, also is simple to clean and wallet-friendly if you’re planning to provide more than one feeder for these winged wonders.
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Our top pick is Aspects Hummzinger High View Hummingbird Feeder for its ease of cleaning and lifetime warranty.