It’s hummer time again

We put our hummingbird feeders up again and immediately received many visitors. The heat is hard on them, too. I noticed this morning one flying back and forth through the mister we have set up by the bird bath. Misters are great to use in this kind of weather as they use very little water, but they cool the air around them considerably. The birds will fly through them, or just sit under them. When it is this hot, it is also a good idea to change the nectar every day. The heat will ferment it fast and it does not help the hummers much if the nectar is making them sick. Wash the feeder out with hot water. While one should avoid any kind of detergent, a vinegar/water solution will work. Rinse the feeder well. Never buy the pre-made nectar or the mixes. Most of them contain dyes and chemicals that are harmful to hummers. Use a good fair trade sugar (the Wholesome brand is also vegan). 1/4 cup of sugar to 1 cup of boiling water is all you need. Let it cool a bit, stick it in the fridge, and it will be good for about a week.

Click on pictures to enlarge.

© Chris Taylor

© Chris Taylor

© Chris Taylor

© Chris Taylor

© Chris Taylor

 

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