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    Hummingbird Feeder Setup

    Tiny visitors that bring big joy.

    Right feeder picks

    • Aspects HummZinger — $20. Easy to clean, ant moat built-in.
    • Perky-Pet Glass — $15. Classic, holds more.
    • First Nature 8oz — $10. Cheap + works great.
    • Red color attracts (no red dye in nectar though).
    • Multiple feeding ports — less aggression.
    • Glass cleans easier than plastic.

    DIY nectar (4:1 ratio)

    • 1 part REGULAR white sugar.
    • 4 parts water.
    • Boil 1-2 minutes — kills mold.
    • Cool to room temperature.
    • NO red dye — harms hummingbirds.
    • NO honey, brown sugar, sweetener.
    • Store extra in fridge up to 1 week.
    • Costs $0.10 per fill vs $5 commercial.

    Cleaning routine

    • Replace nectar every 4-5 days (more often if hot).
    • Mold = sick birds = won't come back.
    • Wash with hot water + mild soap weekly.
    • NO bleach — residue harms birds.
    • Bottle brush helps reach corners.
    • Dry completely before refilling.

    Where to hang

    • Window-view location — enjoy from inside.
    • 4-5 feet off ground.
    • Near (not in) bushes for hiding spots.
    • Multiple feeders 10+ feet apart (territorial).
    • Shade in afternoon — keeps nectar fresh.
    • Away from windows (or use decals to prevent strikes).

    Native plants attract more

    • Bee balm — perennial favorite.
    • Salvia — many varieties.
    • Trumpet vine — climbing favorite.
    • Cardinal flower — wet areas.
    • Coral honeysuckle — non-invasive type.
    • Petunias — easy annual.
    • Zinnias — colorful summer.

    Migration timing

    Hummingbirds migrate. Put feeders out 1-2 weeks before they typically arrive. Track migration at Hummingbird Central. East coast: Ruby-throated. West coast: Anna's, Allen's, Rufous. Take down 2 weeks after last sighting in fall (myth they need feeders to migrate — they don't).

    Hummingbird Feeder Setup | TekSure