Hummingbird Food: What to Feed Your Feathered Friends

Hummingbirds are a delightful sight in any garden, and many bird lovers enjoy attracting them with hummingbird feeders. However, choosing the right type of hummingbird food is just as important as selecting the right feeder. Hummingbird food is a nectar solution that provides the energy and nutrients these tiny birds need to thrive.

When shopping for hummingbird food, it is essential to pay attention to the ingredients. The best hummingbird food is made from a blend of water and sucrose, which closely mimics the nectar found in flowers. Avoid products that contain artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives, as these can be harmful to hummingbirds. Additionally, it is crucial to choose a product that is free from pesticides and other toxins that could harm the birds.

With so many options available, it can be challenging to choose the right hummingbird food. However, by selecting a high-quality product that is free from harmful additives, you can provide your feathered friends with the nourishment they need to thrive. In the following section, we will review some of the best hummingbird foods on the market, so you can make an informed decision when selecting the right product for your garden.

Best Hummingbird Food

Hummingbirds are beautiful, energetic creatures that require nourishing food to thrive. The best way to attract hummingbirds to your garden is to provide them with a reliable source of high-quality food. In this article, we have compiled a list of the best hummingbird food products available on Amazon. These products have been carefully selected based on their quality, nutritional value, and popularity among hummingbird enthusiasts. Whether you’re a seasoned bird watcher or a beginner, you’ll find the perfect hummingbird food for your needs on this list.

Kaytee Hummingbird ElectroNectar Wild Bird Food

If you are looking for a hummingbird food that not only attracts hummingbirds but also nourishes and hydrates them, then Kaytee Hummingbird ElectroNectar Wild Bird Food is a great choice.

Pros

• Hummingbirds are attracted to the color of your feeder, not the color of the food
• Naturally clear hummingbird nectar formula not only attract hummingbirds, but also nourish & hydrate
• Ready to use. Do not add sugar or water

Cons

• A bit pricy
• The brown roof and base may not attract hummingbirds as much as an all-red feeder
• Some users may prefer making their own hummingbird food

Kaytee Hummingbird ElectroNectar Wild Bird Food is a great choice for those who want to attract hummingbirds to their yard without the hassle of making their own nectar. The ready-to-use formula is easy to use, and the electrolytes in the nectar help keep hummingbirds hydrated.

The clear formula of the nectar is also a plus, as it does not contain any added coloring that may be harmful to hummingbirds. Additionally, the fact that hummingbirds are attracted to the color of the feeder, not the color of the food, means that you can use this nectar in any feeder you like.

However, some users may find the price of this nectar to be a bit high compared to other options. Additionally, the brown roof and base of the feeder may not attract hummingbirds as much as an all-red feeder. Finally, some users may prefer making their own hummingbird food to ensure that it is free from additives and preservatives.

Overall, Kaytee Hummingbird ElectroNectar Wild Bird Food is a great choice for those who want an easy-to-use hummingbird food that also provides hydration and nourishment to their feathered friends.

Perky-Pet Hummingbird Food Concentrate

If you’re looking for a hummingbird food concentrate, the Perky-Pet Hummingbird Food Concentrate is a great option.

Pros

• Simply mix concentrate with water – no boiling needed!
• Made of 100% sucrose – an essential energy source for hummingbirds
• Vibrant red color attracts hummingbirds to your feeder

Cons

• Some users have reported that the concentrate can stain certain surfaces
• Some controversy over using hummingbird nectar that contains red dye
• A bit of effort involved in mixing the concentrate with water

The Perky-Pet Hummingbird Food Concentrate is easy to use – simply mix the concentrate with water and you’re good to go. It’s made of 100% sucrose, which is an essential energy source for hummingbirds. Plus, the vibrant red color of the nectar is sure to attract hummingbirds to your feeder.

However, some users have reported that the concentrate can stain certain surfaces, so be careful when using it. Additionally, there is some controversy over using hummingbird nectar that contains red dye. Finally, mixing the concentrate with water does require a bit of effort, so keep that in mind.

Overall, if you’re looking for a hummingbird food concentrate, the Perky-Pet Hummingbird Food Concentrate is a solid choice.

Perky-Pet Hummingbird Instant Nectar Powder Concentrate

This hummingbird food is a great choice for those who want to attract hummingbirds to their garden.

Pros

• Made of 100% sucrose, closely mimicking natural flower nectar
• Attractive red color that mimics the flowers hummingbirds visit in nature
• Easy to use, just mix the concentrate with water to create your desired amount of nectar

Cons

• May not be suitable for those who prefer organic or all-natural products
• Some users may find the red color stains containers or attracts ants
• Not recommended for use in cold weather as it may freeze and harm hummingbirds

Perky-Pet Hummingbird Instant Nectar Powder Concentrate is a great option for those who want to attract hummingbirds to their garden. The 100% sucrose formula closely mimics natural flower nectar, providing hummingbirds with just the essential energy they need to thrive. The nectar’s red color mimics the vibrantly colored flowers that hummingbirds visit in nature, making it irresistible to them.

Using this hummingbird food is easy, simply mix the concentrate with water to create your desired amount of nectar. There’s no need to boil it, and the nectar requires no refrigeration, making storage a breeze. The 2 lb bag of powder concentrate makes up to 192 oz of hummingbird nectar, keeping you in good supply through many visits.

While the product may not be suitable for those who prefer organic or all-natural products, it is a great option for those who want to attract hummingbirds quickly and easily. Some users may find that the red color stains containers or attracts ants, so it’s important to be aware of this when using the product. Additionally, it’s not recommended for use in cold weather as it may freeze and harm hummingbirds.

Overall, Perky-Pet Hummingbird Instant Nectar Powder Concentrate is a great choice for those who want to attract hummingbirds to their garden quickly and easily.

Perky-Pet Hummingbird Liquid Nectar Concentrate

If you’re looking for a hummingbird food that is easy to use, economical, and bird-friendly, then Perky-Pet Hummingbird Liquid Nectar Concentrate might be the right choice for you.

Pros

• Made of 100% sucrose – Sucrose nectars closely mimic natural flower nectar, providing hummingbirds with just the essential energy they need to thrive.
• Attract Hummingbirds – Our bird-friendly formula is irresistible to hummingbirds and contains no red dyes.
• Easy to use – Simply mix concentrate with water to create the desired amount of nectar – no boiling needed!

Cons

• Some birds may not like the taste.
• The concentrate may not last as long as advertised.
• The bottle cap may not be very secure.

Perky-Pet Hummingbird Liquid Nectar Concentrate is made of 100% sucrose, which is the ideal energy source for hummingbirds after flower nectar. It closely mimics natural flower nectar, providing hummingbirds with just the essential energy they need to thrive. The bird-friendly formula is irresistible to hummingbirds and contains no red dyes that can be harmful to birds.

This hummingbird food concentrate is easy to use. Simply mix concentrate with water to create the desired amount of nectar – no boiling needed! The 32 oz bottle of liquid concentrate makes up to 128 oz of hummingbird nectar, which is very economical and will keep you in good supply through many visits.

However, some birds may not like the taste of this concentrate, and the concentrate may not last as long as advertised. The bottle cap may not be very secure, which can lead to spills and waste.

Overall, Perky-Pet Hummingbird Liquid Nectar Concentrate is a great choice for those who want an easy-to-use, economical, and bird-friendly hummingbird food.

More Birds Health Plus Ready to Use Hummingbird Nectar Natural Red (700)

If you want to attract hummingbirds to your garden, you should definitely consider More Birds Health Plus Ready to Use Hummingbird Nectar Natural Red (700).

Pros

• No artificial dyes or flavors
• Mess-free bird feeding
• Added vitamins and calcium promote successful egg hatching

Cons

• Some hummingbirds may prefer other flavors
• The nectar may attract bees and wasps
• The bottle may be difficult to open

This natural red hummingbird nectar is a great option for those who are concerned about artificial dyes and flavors. Made with carmine, it provides a natural red coloring that hummingbirds love. The nectar is also ready to use, so you don’t have to spend time boiling and mixing ingredients.

The resealable container is another great feature, as it allows you to use only what you need and keep the rest fresh. Plus, the added vitamins and calcium can help promote successful egg hatching, which is important if you want to see more hummingbirds in your garden.

However, keep in mind that some hummingbirds may prefer other flavors, so you may need to experiment with different types of nectar to see what works best in your area. Also, the sweet smell of the nectar may attract bees and wasps, which can be a nuisance. Finally, some users have reported difficulty opening the bottle, so you may need to use a tool to help you get it open.

Overall, More Birds Health Plus Ready to Use Hummingbird Nectar Natural Red (700) is a great option for those who want to attract hummingbirds to their garden in a natural and mess-free way.

Sapphire Labs Naturally Fresh Hummingbird Nectar with Nectar Defender Lasts Longer in Hummingbird Feeders | Makes 96 oz of Clear Hummingbird Nectar | an Easy Mix Hummingbird Nectar Powder 1.3 Pound (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for a hummingbird food that is easy to mix and doesn’t require boiling, Sapphire Labs Naturally Fresh Hummingbird Nectar with Nectar Defender is a great option.

Pros

• The added micronutrient prevents nectar spoilage with zero artificial ingredients, which is great for protecting hummingbirds.
• The nectar stays fresh for up to two weeks, making it a convenient choice for those who don’t want to make nectar every few days.
• The healthy nectar contains no dyes and hummingbirds love it.

Cons

• The bag contains 21 ounces of powder, which may not be enough for those with multiple hummingbird feeders.
• Some users have reported that the nectar can still spoil before the two-week mark, depending on the weather conditions.
• It may take some trial and error to find the right ratio of powder to water for your hummingbird feeders.

Sapphire Labs Naturally Fresh Hummingbird Nectar with Nectar Defender is a powder that is easy to mix with water, making it a convenient option for those who don’t want to boil their nectar. The added micronutrient ensures that the nectar stays fresh for up to two weeks, which is great for those who don’t want to make nectar every few days. The healthy nectar contains no dyes, making it a great option for those who want to protect hummingbirds. However, the bag contains 21 ounces of powder, which may not be enough for those with multiple hummingbird feeders. Additionally, some users have reported that the nectar can still spoil before the two-week mark, depending on the weather conditions. It may take some trial and error to find the right ratio of powder to water for your hummingbird feeders. Overall, Sapphire Labs Naturally Fresh Hummingbird Nectar with Nectar Defender is a great option for those who want a convenient and healthy hummingbird food.

Perky-Pet 243 Instant Nectar

If you’re looking for an easy-to-use hummingbird food that doesn’t require any boiling, Perky-Pet 243 Instant Nectar might be a good option for you.

Pros

• Provides high energy to hummingbirds
• Makes 48 oz. of clear nectar
• No artificial sweeteners

Cons

• Some hummingbirds may not like it
• More expensive than making your own nectar
• Only contains sucrose, no added nutrients

Perky-Pet 243 Instant Nectar is a convenient option for those who want to attract hummingbirds to their yard without the hassle of boiling and mixing their own nectar. The concentrate is easy to use – simply stir in water and you’re good to go. Plus, the 8 oz. bag makes 48 oz. of clear nectar, so it will last you a while.

One of the benefits of this nectar is that it provides high energy to hummingbirds, thanks to its 100% sucrose content. It also contains no artificial sweeteners, which is a plus for those who are concerned about the health of their feathered friends.

However, some hummingbirds may not like the taste of this nectar, so it’s not a guarantee that it will attract them to your feeder. Additionally, while it’s convenient to use, it’s more expensive than making your own nectar from scratch. Finally, it’s worth noting that this nectar only contains sucrose and no added nutrients, so it may not be the best option for those who want to provide a well-rounded diet for their hummingbirds.

Overall, if you’re looking for a convenient hummingbird food that doesn’t require any boiling, Perky-Pet 243 Instant Nectar might be worth trying. However, keep in mind that it may not be the best option for all hummingbirds, and it’s more expensive than making your own nectar.

Pennington Electronectar Hummingbird Food

If you’re looking for a hummingbird food that is ready to use and contains no artificial colors, Pennington Electronectar Hummingbird Food is worth considering.

Pros

• Designed to attract hummingbirds to your feeder
• Naturally clear hummingbird food, just like flower nectar
• Contains added electrolytes to keep hummingbirds healthy and hydrated

Cons

• Might attract other pests besides hummingbirds
• Must be refrigerated after opening
• A bit pricey compared to other brands

Pennington Electronectar Hummingbird Food is designed to attract hummingbirds to your feeder with its naturally clear formula that mimics flower nectar. The added electrolytes also help keep hummingbirds healthy and hydrated.

However, some users have reported that the food might also attract other pests besides hummingbirds, such as bees and wasps. Additionally, the food must be refrigerated after opening, which can be inconvenient. Lastly, the price point is a bit higher compared to other brands.

Overall, if you’re willing to pay a bit extra for a hummingbird food that is ready to use and contains no artificial colors, Pennington Electronectar Hummingbird Food is a solid choice.

Kaytee Hummingbird Electro Nectar Ready to Use, 64oz (2 case(64oz))

If you’re looking for a convenient and easy-to-use hummingbird food, Kaytee Electro Nectar is a great option.

Pros

• Provides energy, nourishment, and hydration to hummingbirds
• Ready to use, no need to add sugar or water
• Naturally clear with no added coloring

Cons

• Some users reported needing to refill their feeders frequently due to high hummingbird activity
• A little pricey compared to making your own nectar
• Some users reported difficulty with the packaging and dispensing of the product

Kaytee Electro Nectar is a great option for those looking for a ready-to-use hummingbird food that provides energy, nourishment, and hydration to hummingbirds. It’s also naturally clear with no added coloring, which is great for those who prefer to avoid artificial additives.

One of the best things about this product is that it’s ready to use, so you don’t need to add sugar or water. This makes it incredibly convenient for those who don’t have the time or desire to make their own nectar.

However, some users have reported needing to refill their feeders frequently due to high hummingbird activity, so keep that in mind if you have a lot of hummingbirds in your area. Additionally, some users have reported difficulty with the packaging and dispensing of the product, so be sure to read the instructions carefully before using.

Overall, Kaytee Electro Nectar is a great option for those looking for a convenient and easy-to-use hummingbird food. While it may be a little pricey compared to making your own nectar, the convenience and quality of the product make it worth considering.

Pennington Natural Springs Hummingbird Nectar Food Concentrate

If you are looking for an easy-to-use and nutritious hummingbird food, Pennington Natural Springs Hummingbird Nectar Food Concentrate is a great option.

Pros

• Easy to use
• Nutritious
• Makes 64 oz of nectar

Cons

• Bottle cap may be difficult to reseal
• May attract bees
• Some customers reported issues with the product’s consistency

This hummingbird food concentrate is easy to use and requires no boiling or mixing. Simply mix one-part concentrate to three parts water, shake or stir, and fill your feeder with the nectar. The concentrate is packed with vitamins A, D, C, and E, providing the tiny hummingbird with high energy and nutritious food.

One bottle of Pennington Natural Springs Hummingbird Nectar Food Concentrate makes 64 oz of nectar, providing plenty of food for your feathered friends. However, some customers reported issues with the consistency of the nectar, which may require additional mixing or adjustment.

While the product is generally well-received, some customers reported issues with the bottle cap, which may be difficult to reseal. Additionally, the sweet nectar may attract bees, which can be a nuisance for some users.

Overall, Pennington Natural Springs Hummingbird Nectar Food Concentrate is a great option for those looking for an easy-to-use and nutritious hummingbird food.

Songbird Essentials SE629 Clear Hummingbird Nectar, 24 Ounce

If you are looking for a convenient and easy-to-use hummingbird food, then Songbird Essentials SE629 Clear Hummingbird Nectar might be what you need.

Pros

• Made with 100 percent finely ground sucrose that most closely simulates the nectar from flowers
• Quickly and easily mixes in cold or warm water
• Saves time and trouble

Cons

• Some users reported that the hummingbirds didn’t seem to like it as much as other brands
• A few users found it to be a bit expensive compared to other brands
• One user reported that it attracted bees and ants

This clear hummingbird nectar is made with 100 percent finely ground sucrose, the sugar that most closely simulates the nectar from flowers. It is easy to mix in cold or warm water, and saves time and trouble.

The hummingbirds seem to love it, and it doesn’t mold as quickly as sugar water. Users also appreciate that it is easy to use and dissolves quickly, and that it doesn’t leave stains on the side of the house or counter when mixing it up.

However, some users reported that the hummingbirds didn’t seem to like it as much as other brands, and a few found it to be a bit expensive compared to other brands. One user also reported that it attracted bees and ants.

Overall, if you want a convenient and easy-to-use hummingbird food, then Songbird Essentials SE629 Clear Hummingbird Nectar is worth trying.

Perky-Pet 255CL Clear Hummingbird Nectar Concentrate

A must-have for anyone who wants to attract hummingbirds to their backyard.

Pros

• Makes up to 256 fl oz of hummingbird food
• 100% high-energy sucrose
• Colorless nectar for hummingbirds

Cons

• Some customers reported that the birds didn’t like the clear nectar as much as the red one
• The bottle is not resealable
• The concentrate is a bit sticky

Perky-Pet 255CL Clear Hummingbird Nectar Concentrate is the perfect solution for anyone who wants to attract hummingbirds to their backyard. The concentrate makes up to 256 fl oz of hummingbird food, which is enough to last for weeks. The nectar is formulated with 100% high-energy sucrose, which is the preferred food for hummingbirds.

One of the best things about Perky-Pet 255CL Clear Hummingbird Nectar Concentrate is that it makes colorless nectar for hummingbirds. This means that the nectar won’t stain your feeders or attract bees and wasps. The clear nectar also makes it easier to see when the feeder needs to be refilled.

Some customers reported that the birds didn’t like the clear nectar as much as the red one. However, others said that the birds didn’t seem to mind. It may depend on the individual birds in your area. Another downside is that the bottle is not resealable, so you’ll need to transfer the concentrate to another container if you don’t use it all at once. Finally, some customers found the concentrate to be a bit sticky, which made it difficult to measure out the right amount.

Overall, Perky-Pet 255CL Clear Hummingbird Nectar Concentrate is a great product that is sure to attract hummingbirds to your backyard. Just remember to clean your feeder twice a month – more often in very warm weather – to keep the birds healthy and happy.

Hummer’s Galore Hummingbird Food

If you’re looking for a natural and easy-to-use hummingbird food, Hummer’s Galore Hummingbird Food is a great choice.

Pros

• Provides natural and safe nutrition for hummingbirds
• Pre-measured packets make feeding easy
• Triple-sealed for maximum freshness

Cons

• Some users may prefer a different flavor or formula
• May attract other insects besides hummingbirds
• May need to be changed frequently in hot weather

Hummer’s Galore Hummingbird Food is a convenient and healthy way to feed your hummingbirds. The pre-measured packets make it easy to prepare the right amount of food, and the natural, preservative-free formula ensures that your birds are getting safe and nourishing food.

The triple-sealed packaging also ensures maximum freshness, so you can be sure that your hummingbirds are getting the best possible nutrition. And because the formula is specifically designed to provide extra energy for hummingbirds, you can feel confident that your birds are thriving and flying.

One potential downside of this product is that it may attract other insects besides hummingbirds. Additionally, some users may prefer a different flavor or formula, depending on their birds’ preferences. Finally, in hot weather, the food may need to be changed frequently to prevent spoilage.

Overall, if you’re looking for a convenient and natural way to feed your hummingbirds, Hummer’s Galore Hummingbird Food is a great choice.

Audubon Park Hummingbird Food Wild Bird Nectar

If you want to attract hummingbirds, orioles, and other backyard birds, Audubon Park Hummingbird Food Wild Bird Nectar is a great choice.

Pros

• All-natural coloring with no preservatives
• Includes three ready-to-mix 3-ounce packets
• Attracts a variety of birds, including warblers, woodpeckers, and chickadees

Cons

• Some customers have reported that the packets are difficult to open
• The nectar may spoil quickly in hot weather
• The coloring may stain clothing or other surfaces

Audubon Park Hummingbird Food is an all-natural, safe, and nutritious option for attracting birds to your backyard. The nectar is colored with cochineal extract/carmine and annatto, which are both natural colors. The three ready-to-mix packets make it easy to prepare the nectar and fill your feeder.

One potential downside is that some customers have found the packets difficult to open, which can be frustrating. Additionally, in hot weather, the nectar may spoil quickly, so it’s important to clean your feeder frequently and replace the nectar as needed.

Overall, if you’re looking for a natural and easy-to-use hummingbird food, Audubon Park Hummingbird Food Wild Bird Nectar is a great choice.

(2 Pack) Songbird Essentials SE629 Clear Hummingbird Nectar, 24 Ounce

If you’re looking for a hummingbird food that is easy to mix, then Songbird Essentials SE629 Clear Hummingbird Nectar is a great choice.

Pros

• Easy to mix
• Attracts hummingbirds quickly
• Comes in a 2-pack for convenience

Cons

• May attract bees and wasps
• Some users experienced mold growth
• Can be messy to handle

This hummingbird food is easy to mix, and it attracts hummingbirds quickly. The nectar comes in a 2-pack, which is convenient for those who have multiple feeders.

However, some users have reported that the nectar can attract bees and wasps, which can be a problem for those who are allergic. Additionally, some users have experienced mold growth after a few days, which can be harmful to hummingbirds. Lastly, the nectar can be messy to handle, so it’s important to be careful when mixing and pouring it into the feeder.

Overall, if you’re looking for a hummingbird food that is easy to mix and attracts hummingbirds quickly, then Songbird Essentials SE629 Clear Hummingbird Nectar is a great choice. Just be aware of the potential for bees and wasps, mold growth, and messiness when handling the nectar.

Buying Guide

When it comes to buying hummingbird food, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure that you are choosing the best product for your feathered friends. Here are some factors to consider:

Sugar Content

Hummingbird food is essentially a sugar water solution, and the sugar content is one of the most important factors to consider. The ideal sugar concentration is 4 parts water to 1 part sugar, which is equivalent to a 20% sugar concentration. Avoid products that contain too much or too little sugar, as this can be harmful to hummingbirds.

Additives and Preservatives

Some hummingbird food products contain additives and preservatives, which can be harmful to hummingbirds. Look for products that are free of artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives. It is also important to avoid products that contain red dye, as this can be harmful to hummingbirds.

Organic and Non-GMO

If you are concerned about the quality of the ingredients in your hummingbird food, look for products that are organic and non-GMO. These products are made with high-quality ingredients that are free of pesticides and other harmful chemicals.

Container Size

Consider the size of the container when choosing hummingbird food. If you have a lot of hummingbirds visiting your feeder, you may want to choose a larger container to ensure that you always have enough food on hand. However, if you only have a few hummingbirds visiting your feeder, a smaller container may be sufficient.

Price

Hummingbird food can vary in price, so it is important to consider your budget when choosing a product. Keep in mind that the cheapest product may not always be the best quality, so it is important to choose a product that offers good value for the price.

By considering these factors when choosing hummingbird food, you can ensure that you are providing your feathered friends with a high-quality and nutritious food source.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best hummingbird feeder for attracting birds?

The best hummingbird feeder for attracting birds is one that is red in color, has multiple feeding ports, and is easy to clean. It should also be made of durable materials that can withstand the weather and regular use.

How often should I change my hummingbird feeder?

Hummingbird feeders should be changed and cleaned at least once a week to prevent mold and bacteria growth. In hot weather, they may need to be changed more frequently to keep the nectar fresh.

How do I clean my hummingbird feeder?

To clean a hummingbird feeder, first, remove any remaining nectar and rinse it with hot water. Then, use a mild soap and a bottle brush to scrub the interior of the feeder. Rinse thoroughly with hot water and allow it to dry completely before refilling with fresh nectar.

What are some alternative foods for hummingbirds besides sugar water?

While sugar water is the preferred food for hummingbirds, they may also be attracted to natural nectar from flowers and fruit trees. Some people also offer fruit juice or honey water as an alternative.

What is the ideal sugar-to-water ratio for hummingbird food?

The ideal sugar-to-water ratio for hummingbird food is 1 part sugar to 4 parts water. This provides the necessary energy for the birds without being too concentrated or diluted.

Where should I avoid hanging my hummingbird feeder?

Hummingbird feeders should be hung in a location that is easily visible to the birds but away from direct sunlight and wind. They should also be placed away from windows to prevent collisions. Avoid hanging them near bird feeders that attract larger birds, as this can deter hummingbirds from visiting.