Feeding Habits

• A hummingbird's diet mostly consists of sugar, which they get from flower nectar and tree sap. These birds also eat insects and pollen to get protein and vitamins to build muscle. HowToEnjoyHummingbirds.com reports that these birds have the highest metabolism rate of any animal on earth. To maintain this high energy level, they may consume two-thirds to three times their body weight in food every day.
  
  

Feeders

• There are many styles of hummingbird feeders on the market. However, the most important feature is ease of cleaning and filling. Basin-type feeders are easier to maintain than tube-type feeders, which are more difficult to thoroughly clean. Since hovering is very tiring for hummingbirds, they spend about 80 percent of their time perching on twigs and leaf stems. Perches on the feeders can save calories for the birds by allowing them to be still while eating, while providing you a better opportunity to view the birds.
  
  Since fermented nectar can cause mold and bacteria that is fatal to hummingbirds, feeders need to be cleaned regularly. To keep the nectar fresh for a longer period of time, the feeder should be kept in shade or partial shade to avoid direct sunlight. Also, provide an ample of amount of food for the birds until the feeder is cleaned again, which should occur at least once a week, more often in hot weather.
  
  

Pests

• The sweet nectar attracts ants and bees, which can become a nuisance. The birds will not drink from a feeder that has ants crawling on it or in it. Ant guards or moats block the insect's path as they crawl down the hanger, preventing them from coming close to the feeder. To avoid attracting bees, make sure the nectar does not leak or splash in the feeding area or purchase feeders that are bee and wasp proof.
  
  

Nectar

• You can easily make your own nectar by mixing four parts water to one part cane sugar, bringing it to a boil, cooling it and then refrigerating it for up to two weeks. This sugar and water mixture closely approximates the average sucrose content of the flowers favored by hummingbirds. It is not necessary to purchase commercially made nectar mix for these birds. Do not, however, use honey, brown sugar, fruit or red food coloring in the feeder, which can be harmful to the birds.
  
  

Migration

• Hummingbirds will feed excessively before their fall migration. Keep the feeders clean and filled throughout the late fall and early winter so all migrating birds can be fed. Take the feeder down when you feel comfortable the birds are gone. Put it back up by March and April to attract first returning hummingbirds to your area.