To make sugar water for hummingbirds, follow this simple recipe:
- Mix 1 part refined white granulated sugar with 4 parts water. For example, 1 cup of sugar with 4 cups of water
- Use plain white sugar only; do not use honey, brown sugar, raw sugar, corn syrup, or powdered sugar, as these can be harmful to hummingbirds
- Heat the water (boiling or hot water is recommended) and stir in the sugar until it is completely dissolved. Boiling helps dissolve the sugar and can remove impurities, but you do not need to boil for a long time
- Let the mixture cool completely before filling your hummingbird feeder to avoid damaging the feeder and to prevent rapid fermentation
- Do not add any red dye or food coloring, as it is unnecessary and potentially harmful. The red color of the feeder itself is enough to attract hummingbirds
- Store any extra sugar water in the refrigerator for up to one week and change the feeder solution every 2 days in hot weather or at least once a week in cooler weather to prevent mold growth
This recipe provides a safe and nutritious nectar substitute that mimics natural flower nectar for hummingbirds. Summary:
Ingredient| Amount
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Refined white sugar| 1 part (e.g., 1 cup)
Water| 4 parts (e.g., 4 cups)
Instructions:
- Heat water until hot or boiling.
- Stir in sugar until dissolved.
- Cool completely.
- Fill feeder and hang outside.
- Change nectar regularly and clean feeder.
This method ensures hummingbirds get a healthy, safe sugar water source
