Why Use Homemade Sugar Water for Hummingbirds?

As a seasoned bird enthusiast, I have always found it unnecessary to use commercial hummingbird syrup, which often contains preservatives. Instead, I have relied on making my own sugar water using simple, natural ingredients. This homemade approach not only saves money but also ensures that my backyard hummingbirds receive only the best. In this article, we will discuss the benefits of using homemade sugar water for hummingbirds and why commercial options containing preservatives might not be the best choice.

Why Use Commercial Syrup?

Unfortunately, there are times when people opt for commercial hummingbird syrup. This might be due to convenience, fear of contamination, or simply not wanting to make their own solution. However, using commercial syrup with preservatives can actually be counterproductive. Here's why:

Preservatives: Many commercial syrups contain preservatives, such as sodium benzoate and sorbic acid, which can be harmful to hummingbirds in the long run. While these preservatives may keep the syrup from spoiling for longer, they can also disrupt the birds' health and digestive systems. Higher Cost: Commercial syrups can be quite expensive, especially when compared to making your own solution at home. This can be especially prohibitive for those on a budget. Unnecessary Complications: Homemade sugar water is incredibly simple to prepare. Adding preservatives is an unnecessary and potentially harmful step that adds complexity without adding any real benefits.

Our Hummingbird Syrup Recipe

At my house, we have our own classic recipe for hummingbird syrup that we have found to be both effective and safe. Our recipe calls for:

1 cup of white sugar refined from Michigan sugar beets 4 cups of clean, untreated well water

We have found that this mixture helps to attract and sustain a large number of happy hummingbirds in our backyard. Here are the steps to make this simple syrup at home:

How to Make Hummingbird Syrup

Choose Your Sugar: We use refined white sugar because it is pure and easily dissolves in water, making it ideal for hummingbird syrup. Use Clean Water: Our well water is untreated and free from additives. This ensures that the syrup remains safe for hummingbirds and free from any potential contaminants. Prepare the Solution: Using clean equipment, mix the sugar with warm or hot water to dissolve it fully. While it is not strictly necessary to boil the mixture, doing so can help eliminate any potential harmful microorganisms that might otherwise find their way into the feeder. Store Properly: Store your homemade syrup in a clean container and use it within two weeks for best results. Regularly clean and refill your hummingbird feeders to prevent spoilage and ensure a healthy environment for your feathered friends.

By following these simple steps, you can ensure that your hummingbirds have access to a safe and nutritious food source without the added complications and potential hazards of commercial preservatives.

Conclusion

When it comes to feeding hummingbirds, homemade sugar water is not only the more economical and environmentally friendly option, but it is also the healthiest choice for our beloved pollinators. By avoiding commercial syrups with preservatives, we can help ensure that our hummingbirds continue to thrive in our backyards. Give it a try and see the difference it can make for your own hummingbird population.