Nectar...the Recipe for Perfectly Fun Feeding

Hummingbirds

These tiny birds use so much energy flying that they can eat double their weight in nectar and insects each day.

Despite popular belief, hummingbirds do not suck up nectar with their bills. They actually lap it up with their tongues. While dipping their grooved tongues into nectar sources at up to 12 times a second, the nectar is drawn up and into their mouth each and every time.

You can help them keep their energy level up and attract them to your yard by offering them a nectar solution. Mix four parts water and one part ordinary table sugar to create the perfect nectar solution. Example: (4 cups of water, 1 cup of sugar)

Change the nectar and wash your feeder in hot water every three to four days (more often in hot weather). If you have a WBU Hummingbird Feeder, simply place it in the top rack of your dishwasher for easy cleaning.

If you plan to store nectar in the refrigerator, boil the water first before creating and storing your nectar solution.

Never add red food coloring, honey or artificial sweeteners to the solution.

These birds are quite bold, too, so place your feeder close to the house so you can catch all the action!

Orioles

Orioles are known to enjoy orange slices, grape jelly and mealworms offered from tray-style feeders. They will even use the protein-rich mealworms to feed their nestlings. Nectar feeders are also attractive to orioles, supplementing the natural nectar they typically find in flowers. Be patient and keep the foods fresh, replacing them every few days and be sure to keep your feeders clean, too.

You can help them keep their energy level up and attract them to your yard by offering them a nectar solution. Mix four parts water and one part ordinary table sugar to create the perfect nectar solution. Example: (4 cups of water, 1 cup of sugar)

BUTTERFLY NECTAR RECIPE

1 part sugar

18 parts water

follow same instructions as above