Home - Garden
Entice Hummingbirds To Your Feeder All Summer Long With These Tips
By ALICIA BODINE
Switch Feeders
Opt for a red-colored, 32-ounce glass or ceramic feeder, as it is less prone to bacterial growth and more heat-resistant than plastic, keeping the contents cool.
Cool Nectar
Experts advise replacing nectar two to three times daily when temperatures exceed 90 degrees Fahrenheit to prevent sickness in hummingbirds from spoiled nectar.
Watch for signs of bad nectar: cloudy water, mold, sugar crystals, or dead insects. These indicate bacteria growth and spoilage, making it harmful for hummingbirds to consume.
Sun Protection
Keep your hummingbird feeder cool by placing it in a shaded area. Natural or artificial shade, such as a tree or porch, will prevent the nectar from heating up.
Ant Moat
Ant moats use water to keep insects from reachig and consuming the nectar. They also help regulate the nectar's temperature, preventing it from heating up too quickly.
Some feeders come with built-in ant moats, but you can also buy one for your existing feeder. Attach it using the S-hook, then hang the feeder from a tree branch or porch hook.
Nectar Ice Cubes
To make homemade nectar ice cubes, boil ¼ cup of sugar with 1 cup of water, let it cool, and freeze them. Place the cubes in your feeder to keep the nectar cool.