How To Make Hummingbird Nectar

By  Karen Bridgers Updated
Female rufous hummingbird drinks from flower. gjohnstonphoto/iStock/GettyImages

How to Make Hummingbird Nectar. This formula is appropriate for both hummingbird and oriole feeders. Experts believe that it closely approximates the sweetness and consistency of the nectar naturally found in flowers.

Step 1

Mix 1/4 c. sugar and 1 c. water in a cup or jar.

Step 2

Stir briskly with a spoon until the sugar is completely dissolved.

Step 3

Pour the mixture into a clean hummingbird or oriole feeder.

Step 4

Cover any unused nectar and refrigerate for up to five days.

Things Needed

  • Hummingbird Feeder Cleaning Brushes
  • Stirring Spoons
  • Granulated Sugar
  • Water
  • Hummingbird Feeders
  • Measuring cups
  • Oriole Feeders

TL;DR (Too Long; Didn't Read)

Mixing nectar in a measuring cup allows easy pouring into feeders. Change nectar in feeders every five to seven days – more often in warm weather. Be sure all utensils are clean and dry before making nectar. For larger feeders, simply increase water and sugar using a ratio of four parts water to one part sugar.

Warning

Artificial dyes, honey and sugar other than white table sugar should not be used in nectar feeders. Avoid hanging feeders in direct sunlight, which will cause nectar to spoil more quickly.

Cite This Article

MLA

Bridgers, Karen. "How To Make Hummingbird Nectar" sciencing.com, https://www.sciencing.com/make-hummingbird-nectar-2296/. 15 November 2019.

APA

Bridgers, Karen. (2019, November 15). How To Make Hummingbird Nectar. sciencing.com. Retrieved from https://www.sciencing.com/make-hummingbird-nectar-2296/

Chicago

Bridgers, Karen. How To Make Hummingbird Nectar last modified March 24, 2022. https://www.sciencing.com/make-hummingbird-nectar-2296/

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