It’s that time of year when hummingbirds should be arriving from their migration. There are plenty of flowers and insects for them to find, but I like putting some homemade nectar out so I can watch them. Watching hummingbirds hovering over nectar is really rewarding. They make lots of chirping noises and fly quickly through the air. Truly they are one of the most fascinating creatures of this world.
Making nectar is not difficult. All it takes is one part sugar and four parts water. Filtered water is best to use. The hummingbird feeder I have holds two cups, so I use one-half cup of sugar for the right ratio. To make the nectar, take the water and pour it in a small saucepan. Heat on medium temperature until it starts simmering. At this point, add the sugar and stir until it is completely dissolved. After the water is clear, close the lid, keeping the temperature set to medium heat. Once the liquid starts simmering again, continue for five minutes. When the time is up, take the nectar off of the heat and allow it to cool completely before adding it to the feeder. This process kills any bacteria, making sure that the hummingbirds don’t get sick. No food coloring is needed to attract them.
There are several choices of hummingbird feeders available. Whatever feeder is chosen, it must be thoroughly cleaned and dried before adding any nectar. This keeps bacteria and mold at bay. Mold will accumulate eventually no matter what is done to impede it. Sugar naturally feeds it, and warm weather encourages growth. So, it is imperative that all hummingbird feeders should be cleaned often. It is even more important in the summer months because that is when it gets hottest.
My backyard has fresh nectar waiting for visitors now. Hopefully it won’t be long until I find hummingbirds flitting around and drinking. Fairly soon, my salvia and bee balm will start blooming. These plants really attract hummingbirds, especially the red variety. So one way or another, I am certain to have some tiny, winged friends come visit.