Mother's Day Challege Blog Hop and Give-Away!

Suddenly, a couple of years ago, I noticed that we had hummingbirds in our yard. They are an amazing sight- tiny little creatures constantly on the move.  Beautiful and so important to our eco-system.  One of them even hovered right in front of me as if to say- "Hey! Feed me!" 

In a scramble to make sure that they had adequate nutrition I ran out to the hardware store and bought a humming bird feeder and some hummingbird "food".  I tried to make sure that I kept the feeder full. It is incredible to see them "eat" whether at our feeder or at a flower. 

One day while relaxing on the deck enjoying a beautiful summer day. I saw a hummingbird hover by the feeder which turned out to be almost empty.  Not having a great deal of motivation to go to the store, but feeling guilty about letting the birds down,  I "Googled" how to make hummingbird food and found out how amazingly easy it is to mix up.  

Here is the "recipe". 

HUMMINGBIRD FOOD

One cup plain white sugar (not refined)
Four cups water

Boil the water, stir the sugar in until dissolved.  Cool the mixture and pour into a clean feeder. Store leftover mixture in refrigerator for up to two weeks. It's just that easy! 

DO NOT ADD DYE! It is not necessary and may in fact be harmful.  Most, if not all, hummingbird feeders are a bright red and/or yellow and that bright color will attract the birds without having to add dye.

Believe it or not, there is some controversy as to whether the water needs to be boiled.  I consulted a couple of expert websites for their insight.  According to Audobon, the water should be boiled, I presume to filter any harmful chemicals or minerals that may be in our drinking water. The National Zoo website states that it is not necessary to boil the water.  I boil mine simply out of habit because that is how I learned to make it.  

Some additional tips about using a hummingbird feeder: 

• Always clean your feeder before filling it.  Audobon suggests using one part vinegar to four parts water as a cleaning solution.  
• Replace the water at least twice a week in hot weather. 
• Place your feeder in a shady location.

For more information about hummingbird feeders or how to attract and feed hummingbirds with flowers and plants see "How to Create a Hummingbird Friendly Yard"  and "Hummingbirds". 

I found some feeders at the Dollar Store and I am going to put them several in my yard in different locations.  I hope they enjoy the food and I am sure I will enjoy watching them! 

Thanks for stopping by today! 

~Cynthia