Making Your Own Sugar Water

1 part sugar
4 parts water

Boil the water first, then add the sugar. The boiling water will ensure that your nectar stays fresh longer and retards fermentation. Add the sugar to the water after it has boiled. Don't boil the sugar and water together. Doing so will cause some of the water to evaporate and will create nectar that is too concentrated. If the nectar is too sweet it can damage a bird's liver.

Hang the container in the shade and out of the wind if possible. Clean the container and refill weekly. Clean with soap and water or a 10% bleach solution or 1 part vinegar to 4 parts water.

DO NOT use honey, it and causes fungus to grow.
DO NOT use artificial sweeteners.
DO NOT use food coloring.


Continue to feed the hummingbirds until they have all migrated, this could be October or November.
It is a myth that they will stay to eat and miss the migration. They know when to leave and need as much energy as possible to make their journey.