Hummingbirds/Colibrí

STORING NECTAR

I prefer to mix and store feeder nectar in a glass jar rather than plastic. Pouring hot nectar into plastic can release plastic gases that could be harmful to the birds. Also, plastic is porous and can retain odors and residue from previous contents. Glass is safer to use. Be sure to clean the bottle each time you empty it of nectar. Otherwise it can develop slime which will eventually mold. Use very hot water and a brush or clean cloth to scrub the inside. DO NOT put in the dishwasher!

CHANGE/REPLACE NECTAR

You need to be diligent about checking and changing the nectar according to these guidelines.

Replace as soon as feeder is empty. These birds need to feed as often as 10-20 minutes. At peak times this means maybe 2 or 3 times in a day.
In hot weather (over 88°), replace every day and as often as needed.
In cooler weather, replace every 3-5 days.
Change when it is cloudy or has bugs floating in it.

Do not add fresh nectar to old nectar in feeder. Always throw out the old before adding the new.

If you notice a very sickeningly sweet honey-like smell in the feeder, the nectar has fermented and the inside will feel slimy. If it is not cleaned and replaced this can make the birds sick. You should rinse feeder with hot water every time you change nectar and at least once a day in hot weather! Clean the feeder ports of dirt and mold. There are special brushes available for cleaning feeders

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