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How to Make a Hummingbird Feeder Solution

How to Make a Hummingbird Feeder Solution
Hummingbirds are beautiful birds that are usually attracted to large blooming flowers to feed on the nectar. To attract hummingbirds to their gardens, many people will put out hummingbird feeders filled with a sugary solution that has a similar percentage of sugar as that found in nectar. While you can purchase commercial nectar mixes, it is much less expensive and just as easy to make your own out of water and white sugar.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:
  • Measuring Cup White Sugar Water Saucepan Stove Container For Storage
  • Measuring Cup
  • White Sugar
  • Water
  • Saucepan
  • Stove
  • Container For Storage
Step 1
Measure the ingredients. The hummingbird feeder solution consists of a ratio of one part sugar to four parts water. For instance, you might use ¼ cup of sugar to 1 cup of water.
Step 2
Heat up the water. Pour the water into a saucepan and heat on the stove until it starts to boil. The water needs to boil for only a couple of minutes. Letting it boil longer will cause the water to boil away and change the sugar-water ratio.
Step 3
Stir in the sugar. Once the water is boiling, add the sugar, stirring to make sure it dissolves.
Step 4
Cool it. Allow the solution to cool before filling your hummingbird feeder. This could take several hours. You may want to store it in a container in the refrigerator while it cools.

Tips & Warnings

 
Excess hummingbird feeder solution can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks before it ferments.
 
Red is a color that attracts hummingbirds, so some people choose to add red food coloring in the sugar-water solution. However, there is some concern that red dye may be harmful to hummingbirds. Instead, consider simply using a red feeder to hold the solution.

Article Written By Shiromi Nassreen

Shiromi Nassreen has been writing professionally since 2005. She specializes in travel and outdoor topics, and her articles have appeared in various print and online publications, including "DISfunkshion Magazine" and Matador Travel. Nassreen holds a Bachelor of Arts in theatre studies from Rose Bruford College of Speech & Drama.

Write for Trails.com

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