10 of the Best Hummingbird Feeders to Entice Some Feathered Friends (and Make Your Yard Look Nice, Too)

To make hummingbird nectar for your feeder, you'll need just two simple ingredients: sugar and water. According to the National Audubon Society, the ideal hummingbird nectar requires mixing one part sugar with four parts water. This creates a sugar concentration that closely mimics the natural nectar found in flowers that hummingbirds feed on. It's important to use only plain white sugar, as other types of sugar or sweeteners can be harmful to hummingbirds. Simply dissolve the sugar in hot water, allow it to cool, and then fill your clean hummingbird feeder with the nectar. Avoid using red dye or adding any other substances to the nectar, as they are unnecessary and can be harmful to the birds. Providing clean, fresh nectar in your hummingbird feeder will attract these fascinating creatures to your yard and provide them with a safe and nutritious food source. Remember to clean and refill your feeder regularly to keep it hygienic and ensure the well-being of the hummingbirds.

To attract hummingbirds to your yard, it's important to carefully consider the placement of your feeder. The feeder should be placed in a location that is easily visible and accessible to hummingbirds, ideally in an area that gets a mix of sun and shade throughout the day. In intense sunlight, the nectar can heat up and spoil, while highly shaded areas will prevent you from optimal viewing of the creatures’ iridescent colors. Placing the feeder about 10 to 15 feet from a tree will give the hummingbirds nearby cover, and a potential resting place. Having natural perching spots near the feeder, such as trees or shrubs, will provide the hummingbirds a place to rest between feedings. Lastly, avoid placing the feeder near areas treated with pesticides or chemicals.

When it comes to glass versus plastic hummingbird feeders, each material has upsides and drawbacks. Glass hummingbird feeders are typically more durable, long-lasting and easy to clean to clean. They can also be more aesthetically pleasing, as they come in a greater diversity of designs, shapes and colors, which also may attract hummingbirds with their visual appeal.
Plastic feeders are lightweight, safe and shatterproof, making them a good option for those concerned about durability or safety, especially in areas prone to extreme weather conditions. Plastic feeders also tend to be more affordable and may be a good choice for first-time feeders. Ultimately, both feeders are acceptable and enjoyed by the beautiful visitors.