10 best hummingbird food mixture

Hummingbird food mixture, also known as hummingbird nectar, is a simple and essential component for attracting and feeding hummingbirds in your backyard. It's important to prepare this mixture correctly to ensure the health and well-being of these tiny, vibrant birds. Here's how you can make hummingbird food:

Ingredients:

White granulated sugar: Use regular white sugar, not substitutes like honey or brown sugar.
Water: Use clean, fresh water.

Recipe:

Mix the Sugar and Water: In a saucepan, combine four parts water to one part sugar. For example, you can mix 1 cup of sugar with 4 cups of water. This ratio closely resembles the natural sugar content found in flower nectar, which hummingbirds feed on.
Dissolve the Sugar: Heat the mixture on the stove until the sugar completely dissolves. Stir the solution while heating, but avoid boiling it. Boiling can break down the sugar and alter the mixture's effectiveness.
Cool the Nectar: Allow the sugar-water mixture to cool to room temperature.Never put hot nectar in your hummingbird feeder, as it can harm the birds and damage the feeder.
Fill the Feeder: Pour the cooled nectar into your hummingbird feeder. Make sure the feeder is clean and free of mold or mildew. Hang the feeder in a location where hummingbirds can easily access it, preferably near flowers or in a shaded area.
Maintenance: Regularly clean and refill your hummingbird feeder every 3-5 days, or sooner if the nectar becomes cloudy or develops mold. Clean the feeder with hot water and a bottle brush, and rinse thoroughly before refilling.

Important Tips:

Avoid using red food coloring or dye in your hummingbird nectar. It's unnecessary and potentially harmful to the birds.
Make sure the nectar is always fresh to prevent fermentation and the growth of harmful bacteria.
During hot weather, change the nectar more frequently to prevent spoilage.
Provide a variety of plants and flowers in your garden to supplement their diet with natural nectar sources.

By following these guidelines, you can create a safe and nutritious hummingbird food mixture that will attract these beautiful birds to your backyard for your enjoyment.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best hummingbird food mixture on the market

Kaytee 100506148 Ready to Use Hummingbird ElectroNectar, 64 Ounces, Clear

Kaytee

Based on 9 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Kaytee Hummingbird Electronectar is the first ever, hydrating energy drink for nature's tiny acrobats. It goes beyond traditional feeder-nectars to not only attract hummingbirds, but also nourish & hydrate. Kaytee Electronectar contains electrolytes and no added coloring. Made in the USA.

Hummingbirds are attracted to the color of your feeder, not the color of the food
Naturally clear hummingbird nectar formula not only attract hummingbirds, but also nourish & hydrate
Ready to use. Do not add sugar or water
Shake well before use and refrigerate after opening
Clean your hummingbird feeder prior to filling for best results
Made in the USA

User questions & answers

Question:	The analysis on the bottle sez 80% moisture, assuming that means water, so the feeder cannot be left outside in winter in the pacific nw
Answer:	I leave my feeder outside in winter. I rotate them more frequently in winter, with ones I keep inside. Works for me. Hope this answer was helpful.
Question:	how can hummies drink this out doors when the bottle says refrigerate? made me pause after i bought it. don't want to give them food poisoning. anyone
Answer:	The nectar does have a preservative in it to help keep it fresh. Depending on how many birds you have coming to the feeders refrigeration after opening keeps it fresh for months, even over the winter if in higher latitudes. I'm in St. Louis and my feeders are in full sun so I only put enough in the feeders to last 10 - 14 days then clean rinse and refill. It was amazing how much more the birds liked the Kaytee clear nectar. I'll never use anything else. BTW if the nectar gets too old they will just stop feeding.
Question:	How long does this stayed "good" after opening? I've tried other stuff that the birds seem to stop liking after it sits out for so long. thanks
Answer:	I put mine in the fridge after opening. I fill my feeder as full as it will take & the birds feed until it's empty. It lasts just over a week & my hummers LOVE this stuff!!! I'm going to order a larger feeder to see if they demolish the additional food or if I'll have to cut back on how much I fill. I've got a feeling that I won't have to cut back!
Question:	Does it have to be refrigerated after opening
Answer:	Hi, Sam! Under storage, it states "Refrigerate After Opening." I always purchase the 64 oz container and have a special place for it in the refrigerator. The is such an outstanding product that making refrigerator room is such a small accomodation! Enjoy, Elaine Brown!

Product features

Kaytee Hummingbird ElectroNectar

Kaytee Hummingbird ElectroNectar mimics flower nectar with added electrolytes and no artificial colors. Hummingbirds are attracted to the color of your feeder, not the color of the food.

We put animals first.

That's nothing new. Kaytee's commitment to small animal pets, pet birds, and wild birds has inspired nutritional innovations for more than 150 years. A complete line of products - food, treats, bedding, toys, habitats, and accessories - helps keep your treasured friends active, comfy, and safe. Our expertise and state-of-the-art processing means quality is built into every product, ensuring the health, security, and comfort of each pet and bringing peace-of-mind to all pet parents.

Perky-Pet 238CL Clear Hummingbird Nectar 32 oz Concentrate – Makes 128 fl oz

Perky-Pet

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Perky-Pet 32 fl oz Clear Hummingbird Nectar Concentrate is made of 100% sucrose, the ideal energy source for hummingbirds after flower nectar. Each 32 fl oz bottle of concentrate makes up to 128 fl oz of hummingbird nectar. Perky-Pet is the leading supplier of wild bird feeders and accessories. Perky-Pet wild bird feeders lure birds by providing an inviting opportunity to eat. In turn, you get hours of joy as birds flock to your feeder.

Dye-free
No artificial colors
100% sucrose replicates flower nectar
32 fl oz bottle
Each bottle makes 128 fl oz of clear nectar
Mix 3 parts water with 1 part concentrate

User questions & answers

Question:	Does this require refrigeration after opening
Answer:	Once opened, we recommend storing this liquid nectar in the refrigerator. It can be good for up to one month after opening.
Question:	Do I have to add boiling water to mix, or will tap water do
Answer:	Simply mix with water! The water does not need to be boiled first.
Question:	How often should the nectar mix be changed
Answer:	If you live in very warm temps change nectar once a week if cooler temps 80 and under it can last for 2 weeks. I never fill feeders to Max so I don’t waste.
Question:	Is it supposed to be this tarte versus sweet with a slight carbonated taste? That's how mine is? do they truly like it? or is it spoiled
Answer:	I don't know. I have never tasted it. I did use this product for a while but this year switched to sugar water which I make myself. It is much more economical and the hummers do love my mix of 1 part sugar to 3 parts of water (do not add food coloring).

Product features

Perky-Pet Clear Hummingbird Nectar

Perky-Pet clear liquid-concentrate nectar helps get your hummingbird feeder up and running fast. Hummingbirds will appreciate the beneficial food source, and hummingbird enthusiasts can put their feet up and enjoy watching the dazzling birds buzzing about and dining at the feeder.

Time-Saving Convenience

The 32-ounce bottle of concentrate makes up to 128 fluid ounces of clear hummingbird nectar. To use, simply combine one part concentrate to three parts water and fill the feeder, storing any excess pre-mixed nectar in the refrigerator for later use. Be sure to clean and refill your hummingbird feeder on a regular basis to ensure healthy, happy hummingbirds and repeat visits.

Dye-Free Formula

Made from 100% high-energy sucrose (sugar) with no artificial flavors or sweeteners, the Perky-Pet clear liquid-concentrate nectar mimics the natural flavor and appearance of flower nectar, offering an ideal and necessary food source for hummingbirds. It's free of any artificial coloring or dyes, and hummingbirds will find and enjoy the clear nectar just as much as red-colored alternatives.

Perky Pet 255 Hummingbird Nectar Concentrate, 64 oz

Perky-Pet

Based on 5 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Perky Pet 255 Hummingbird Nectar Concentrate, 64 oz, Red

64 oz. Of red concentrate makes up to 256 oz. Of hummingbird food
Easy to use - just add water
Hummingbird preferred - 100% high-energy sucrose
Use purified water for best results

User questions & answers

Question:	Can somebody suggest why red dye is added to this? is there any valid reason to add something potentially toxic to this mix
Answer:	I wouldn’t eat it so I wouldn’t give it to a bird. My feeder is red glass to attract the birds. Most feeders have red on them so you don’t need red food to attract them.
Question:	Do you have to refrigerate any unused portions made ? How long is the solution in the feeders good for, or is it OK until used up
Answer:	Once mixed, nectar can be stored in the refrigerator for 1-2 months. We recommend cleaning feeders and providing fresh nectar at least once a week so it does not spoil or ferment. When outdoor temperatures rise, more frequent cleaning is necessary. Here is a quick reference guide to use when dealing with different climates: 70°-84°F (21°-28°C)… Change Nectar and Clean Feeder every 3 days 85°-87°F (29°-30°C)… Change Nectar and Clean Feeder every 2 days 88°-99°F (31°-37°C)… Change Nectar and Clean Feeder every day
Question:	Red dye may not be good birds, nor is it necessary. Mix your own nectar 1/4 c cane sugar to 1 c of water. Is this true
Answer:	I found out that red dye is unhealthy for hummingbirds. One cup sugar to 4 cups water, heat to almost boiling but remove from heat before it boils. Also clean the feeder each time before filling.
Question:	Why hummingbirds will NOT eat perky-pet nectar
Answer:	You can easily make your own in 3-4 minutes with plain water and white sugar. I bet you have some in your cupboard right now! Do you have a pyrex bowl or glass measuring cup? Fill it with two cups of water and add 1/2 cup sugar. This is a ratio of 1 part sugar to 4 parts water. Stir it and microwave for 2-3 minutes. Stir again and microwave a minute more. Cool it to room temp., and your (cheap$$) nectar is ready to fill your hummingbird feeder. Then, be patient. They may not come right away, but birds will tweet the location, and eventually you'll get visitors. Companies who sell red-dye nectar are profiting from a product that is both unnecessary and harmful. It is shameful and can be discouraged by simply refusing to buy them.

Product features

Perky Pet 255 Hummingbird Nectar Concentrate, 64 oz

Our 64 oz bottle of nectar concentrate makes oh-so-sweet hummingbird food that the little birds enjoy. Formulated with 100% sucrose, this hummingbird nectar can be a vital source of energy for hummingbirds. The bottle of concentrate can make up to 256 oz of red nectar.

Features

Bird preferred - 100% sucrose
64 ounce bottle of nectar concentrate
Makes 256 ounces of red nectar
Easy to use - just mix with water

Perky-Pet 244CLSF 2-Pound Bag of Instant Clear Concentrate Hummingbird Nectar, Package may vary

Perky-Pet

Based on 811 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Perky-Pet, the leading supplier of hummingbird feeding supplies in the world, offers a 2 lb. Bag of dye-free hummingbird nectar concentrate. This colorless mixture is formulated with 100% sucrose, the best sugar for hummingbird digestive systems. The 2 lb. Package can create up to 192 oz. Of liquid hummingbird nectar when mixed at the rate of 4 teaspoons for every 3 fl. Oz. Of water.

Birds love the 100% sucrose formula, which digests easiest
This mix has no dye - makes clear hummingbird nectar
2 lb. Bag makes up to 192 oz. Of hummingbird nectar
No boiling necessary, just mix with water
Mix 4 teaspoons of concentrate for every 3 fluid oz. Of water

User questions & answers

Question:	Isn't this the same thing as table sugar
Answer:	I Usero buy it from the bird store, and it is specially formulated for hummingbirds not table sugar. The thing I like most is it does not ferment as quickly as sugar water, and you don't have to boil water to dissolve.

Product features

Perky-Pet Instant Clear Hummingbird Nectar

Perky-Pet instant clear powder-concentrate nectar helps get your hummingbird feeder up and running fast. Hummingbirds will appreciate the beneficial food source, and hummingbird enthusiasts can put their feet up and enjoy watching the dazzling birds buzzing about and dining at the feeder.

Time-Saving Convenience

The 2-pound bag of powder concentrate makes up to 192 fluid ounces of clear hummingbird nectar. To use, simply measure the powder, stir in water, and fill the feeder, storing any excess pre-mixed nectar in the refrigerator for later use. Be sure to clean and refill your hummingbird feeder on a regular basis to ensure healthy, happy hummingbirds and repeat visits.

Dye-Free Formula

Made from 100% high-energy sucrose (sugar) with no artificial flavors or sweeteners, the Perky-Pet clear powder-concentrate nectar mimics the natural flavor and appearance of flower nectar, offering an ideal and necessary food source for hummingbirds. It's free of any artificial coloring or dyes, and hummingbirds will find and enjoy the clear nectar just as much as red-colored alternatives.

Kaytee Hummingbird Electronectar, 16 oz Ready to Use

Based on 181 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Kaytee Hummingbird ElectroNectar is the first ever, hydrating energy drink for nature's tiny acrobats. It goes beyond traditional feeder-nectars to not only attract hummingbirds, but also nourish and hydrate them.

Naturally clear hummingbird nectar formula
Ready to use. Do not add sugar or water
Clean your hummingbird feeder prior to filling for best results
Nectar with electrolytes and no added coloring
Shake well before use and refrigerate after opening

Perky-Pet 243 Instant Nectar, 8-Ounce, Original Clear

Perky-Pet

Based on 505 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Perky-Pet Original Clear Instant Nectar provides the highest amount of energy to hummingbirds by using 100% sucrose. The 8 oz. bag makes 48 oz. of clear hummingbird nectar. This hummingbird nectar concentrate is so easy to use! Simply stir in water and there's no boiling required. Mixing Instructions: Mix 4 Teaspoons of nectar concentrate for every 3 fl. oz. of water until you reach the desired amount of nectar solution.

8 ounce bag
Makes 48 oz. of clear nectar
100% Sucrose - contains no artificial sweeteners
No boiling required

User questions & answers

Question:	Where is the expiration date on the bag
Answer:	As long as the product remains dry, it does not have an expiration date.

Product features

Perky-Pet Instant Clear Hummingbird Nectar

Time-Saving Convenience

The 8 ounce bag of powder concentrate makes up to 48 fluid ounces of clear hummingbird nectar. To use, simply measure the powder, stir in water, and fill the feeder, storing any excess pre-mixed nectar in the refrigerator for later use. Be sure to clean and refill your hummingbird feeder on a regular basis to ensure healthy, happy hummingbirds and repeat visits.

Dye-Free Formula

Perky-Pet 238 32 fl oz Red Hummingbird Nectar Concentrate - 2 Pack

Perky-Pet

Based on 88 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Perky-pet 32 fl oz red hummingbird nectar concentrate is made of 100% sucrose, the ideal energy source for hummingbirds after flower nectar. Each 32 fl oz bottle of concentrate makesup to 128 fl oz of hummingbird nectar. Perky-pet is the leading supplier of wild bird feeders & accessories. Perky-pet wild bird feeders lure Birds by providing an inviting opportunity to eat. In turn, you get hours of joy as Birds flock to your feeder.

2 pack of nectar
Easy to use liquid concentrate
Makes a total of 128 oz of nectar
Made of 100% sucrose - an essential energy source for hummingbirds
Simply mix with water - no boiling required

Birds Choice Butterfly Nectar

Based on 217 reviews Check latest price

Product description

This Birds Choice butterfly nectar, makes 6 cups of nectar specially formulated ingredients for butterflies.

Specially formulated for butterflies with a combination of glucose, fructose, calcium salt, halide salt and amino acids
This package makes a total of 6 cups of nectar, enough to last you and your butterfly friends for a while
Perfect for use with butterfly nectar feeders, including our Flutterby feeder
This nectar is versatile and can also be applied directly on flowers by spraying them with a fine mister bottle
1.7oz bag of crystalized nectar - follow instructions on package for making nectar

User questions & answers

Question:	What are the ingredients, please
Answer:	I don't know...google it.
Question:	Would this formula provide the required nutrients for male butterflies if used in a backyard puddler
Answer:	This nectar contains the nutrients that butterflies need. You can dissolve the whole package in 6 cups of water to make a large amount of nectar or you can make a small quantity by using 1 tablespoon of nectar to 3 oz. of water. Thank you.
Question:	Can this be sprayed into a butterfly house to help attract them
Answer:	You can spray it not sure how well it will work. I attracted hummingbird with this
Question:	Will butterflies come if their feeder is close to bird feeders or will that scare them off
Answer:	Had it away from bird feeders and didnt get a single butterfly. Will try again this year.

Product features

Butterfly Feeders, Houses & Accessories

Attract a variety of butterflies to your yard with butterfly feeders, houses, nectar & more by Birds Choice! There are several ways to attract butterflies. First, color is important, since they react to strong ultra-violet reflections. Next, they take the nectar from flowers, therefore, a nectar solution attracts. This collection of butterfly accessories includes feeders that offer nectar to attract butterflies. The feeders also have trays for real overripe fruit.

Specially Designed to Attract Butterflies

Birds Choice Butterfly Nectar is specially formulated for butterflies with a combination of glucose, fructose, calcium salt, halide salt and amino acids.

Made In the USA

Proudly made in the USA. Birds Choice currently operates out of a manufacturing facility in Chilton, WI and remains committed to designing and creating quality outdoor products.

Durable Construction

Fashioned with premium quality materials such as recycled poly-lumber and polycarbonate, Birds Choice butterfly accessories are perfect for outdoor use. They withstand the harshest weather conditions and are resistant to wear and tear, ensuring long-term use.

About Birds Choice: For The Birds You Love

The Birds Choice line of professional feeders and houses was founded on innovation, design, and good old hard work. Our feeder and houses are built with proprietary patented components and constructed for optimum performance. Add in our recycled poly-lumber construction - guaranteed never to fade, crack, or split - and you have products to enjoy for many years to come.

Perky-Pet Hummingbird Ready To Use Nectar ( 64 Fluid Ounces - 1.89L )

Perky-Pet

Based on 92 reviews Check latest price

Product description

With such a high-energy lifestyle, hummingbirds need to eat constantly. Perky-Pet Ready-to-Use Red Hummingbird Nectar is made of 100% sucrose so your hummingbirds get just the essential energy they need to thrive. Hummingbirds easily digest sucrose so the energy is delivered faster than artificial nectar mixtures! Our sweet hummingbird nectar comes ready to use so it's so convenient for you and just right for the hummingbirds. There’s no need to mix it with water or boil it – just pour into your favorite hummingbird feeder and go! Plus, our nectar requires no refrigeration, making storage a breeze! In addition, this nectar features a bold red color that mimics the vibrantly colored flowers that hummingbirds imbibe from in nature. They won’t be able to resist stopping for a drink! Meanwhile, the large 64 oz bottle will keep you in good supply through many visits.

Convenient ready-to-use formula requires no boiling or mixing – just pour and go!
Made of 100-percent sucrose – an essential energy source for hummingbirds
Vibrant red color attracts hummingbirds to your feeder
No refrigeration required
Contains 64 ounces of nectar

User questions & answers

Question:	Does this concentrate make 192 oz or 64 oz? In the comparison with other products it says that it produces 192oz but once selected it says 64oz
Answer:	You may want to double check the amount/weight you are comparing. This is for 10 pounds. Grocery stores near me sell unsalted shelled peanuts for about $3 per pound.
Question:	What is the life of this product
Answer:	No shells---some skins that are flaking off. Some of my orders have been better than others. The skins are not a problem I am buying peanuts from "Birds Unlimited" now.. They are high quality peanuts for birds.

Product features

Perky-Pet 64 oz Ready-to-Use Red Hummingbird Nectar

Hummingbirds flap their wings an average of 70 times each second. Because of their high-energy lifestyle, hummingbirds need to eat constantly. Perky-Pet Ready-to-Use Red Hummingbird Nectar is just what you need to keep all of your hungry hummers happy and well fed. It’s convenient for you and tasty for your hummingbirds. Plus, the large 64 oz bottle will keep you in good supply through many visits.

Red Color Attract Hummingbirds

Hummingbirds love bright colors! Perky-Pet Ready-to-Use Red Hummingbird Nectar features a bold red color that mimics the vibrantly colored flowers that hummingbirds visit in nature. They won’t be able to resist stopping for a drink!

Convenient and Easy to Use

This sweet hummingbird nectar comes ready to use so it's so convenient for you and just right for the hummingbirds. There’s no need to mix it with water or boil it – just pour into your favorite hummingbird feeder and go! Plus, this nectar requires no refrigeration, making storage a breeze!

Made of 100% Sucrose

Perky-Pet Ready-to-Use Red Hummingbird Nectar is made of sucrose so your hummingbirds get just the essential energy they need to thrive. Hummingbird nectars mixed with sucrose more closely mimic natural flower nectar than artificial fructose and dextrose mixtures. Hummingbirds more easily digest sucrose so the energy is delivered faster!