Hummingbirds are known for their iridescent plumage and aerial acrobatics. These tiny birds have an incredibly high metabolism, requiring constant energy to sustain their rapid wingbeats and active lifestyles. They search for food almost constantly throughout the day.
The Hummingbird’s Natural Diet
In their natural habitats, hummingbirds primarily rely on flower nectar for energy. This sugary liquid, rich in sucrose, provides immediate fuel for their demanding flight. Hummingbirds often favor tubular-shaped flowers, which are well-suited for their long bills and tongues, allowing efficient nectar extraction.
Beyond nectar, hummingbirds also consume small insects and spiders. These invertebrates supply essential proteins, fats, and minerals that nectar alone cannot provide. Adult hummingbirds eat dozens of insects daily, a number that increases when feeding their young. They capture prey by gleaning them from leaves, plucking them from spider webs, or hawking them from the air. Tree sap and pollen can also be occasional components of their diet.
Providing Supplementary Food
Feeders can offer supplementary food to hummingbirds, typically containing a sugar-water solution. The recommended ratio for homemade nectar is one part refined white granulated sugar to four parts water. This mixture closely mimics the sugar concentration in natural flower nectar. Ensure the sugar is fully dissolved before filling the feeder.
Use only plain white granulated sugar, such as cane or beet sugar. Other sugar types, including brown, raw, organic, or powdered sugars, contain impurities or additives harmful to hummingbirds. Tap water is acceptable if safe for human consumption, but avoid softened water due to its salt content. Any extra solution can be stored in the refrigerator for up to one week.
Cleanliness prevents mold and bacteria growth. Feeders should be cleaned every other day in hot weather and at least twice a week in cooler conditions. To clean, discard remaining nectar, disassemble the feeder, and scrub all parts with hot water and a mild dish soap or a solution of one part distilled white vinegar to two parts water. Thorough rinsing is necessary to remove all cleaning residue, followed by air drying before refilling.
Foods to Avoid
Never offer certain substances to hummingbirds due to potential harm. Artificial sweeteners provide no nutritional value or energy. Honey is unsuitable; it ferments quickly when diluted, promoting dangerous mold and fungi that can lead to fatal tongue infections. Its sticky consistency can coat bills and feathers, hindering feeding and flight.
Adding red dyes or artificial food coloring to hummingbird nectar is unnecessary and harmful. Natural flower nectar is clear; hummingbirds are attracted to the red components of the feeder itself, not the liquid’s color. Studies suggest artificial dyes, often petroleum-based, may pose health risks, including organ issues, given the large quantities consumed relative to their body size. Other sugars like brown, raw, and powdered sugar contain compounds or anti-caking agents difficult for hummingbirds to digest or toxic in high amounts. Syrups and processed human foods also contain ingredients not digestible or harmful to these birds.