Make Sure Your Feeder Is Easy To Clean

I have experimented with making hummingbird feeders and have decided that purchasing an inexpensive feeder is not much higher in cost. One of the things to consider when buying (or making) a feeder is the ease in cleaning. Our local grocery store carries the Perky Pet line and the very simple feeders (usually under $5) have worked the best.

Speaking of cleaning, never use any type of soap to clean the feeder. Even if you think you have rinsed the feeder thoroughly even the most minute amount can injury the hummy. Just clean the feeder with very hot water and you can add a couple of drops of bleach. Rinse very well with hot water if you use bleach.

Another key is to only add enough food to last for one day, particularly if you are in a warm climate. This will ensure that you don't have any bacteria growing in the food. I use 4 parts water to 1 part sugar to make the solution, heat it in the microwave to just below the boiling point, place it in a covered glass container and refrigerate. Just take out what you need for 1 day (or 2), depending on the amount of hummies coming to the feeder it may be a very small amount.

Please do NOT put food coloring in the water. Studies have shown that this is not beneficial and can actually be harmful. Also never use honey or artificial sweeteners. Just plain old sugar works best. Since almost all of the feeders have a red base the hummies are drawn to the feeder without much work on your part.

By Lilly M from NW Michigan