Hummingbird Sugar Water
This recipe mimics the nectar in flowers so hummingbirds get the right sugar ratio.
Makes: 1 cup
Cost: $5
Ingredients
- ¼ cup Sugar, white granulated white, granulated
- 1 cup Water boiled, not softened
Instructions
- Combine sugar and water in saucepan and bring to boil for 5 minutes.
- Cool thoroughly.
- Fill hummingbird feeder.
- Hang feeder outside. Store leftovers in airtight container in fridge for 5 days. Note expiry date.
Notes
- Sugar: do NOT use brown sugar, honey, sugar powders, artificial sweeteners.
These items can cause a range of problems including bird illness, rapid bacteria and fungi growth, and the potential spread of disease. - Do not use red food coloring or red dye.
- Make small batches as needed: clean and refill feeder frequently on warm days. You may need to remove feeder on hot days to avoid mold.
| Batch Size | Sugar Amount | Water Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Tiny batch | 1/8 cup sugar (30 ml) | 1/2 cup water (118 ml) |
| Small batch | 1/4 cup sugar (60 ml) | 1 cup water (236 ml) |
| Medium batch | 1/2 cup sugar (118 ml) | 2 cups water (472 ml) |
| Large batch | 1 cups sugar (236 ml) | 4 cups water (944 ml) |
| Extra large batch | 2 cups sugar (472 ml) | 8 cups water (1.9 L) |