Want to keep your feathered friends happy? Here is how you can make your summer special bird feeders: homemade nectar and fruit feeders for Hummingbirds and other fruit-loving birds.
Summer is the perfect season to watch the vibrant activity of birds in your backyard. Among these, hummingbirds and other fruit-loving birds, such as orioles and tanagers, add a special charm with their colorful presence and unique feeding habits. Attracting these avian visitors requires offering them the right type of food.
In this blog, we’ll share recipes for homemade nectar and fruit feeders that are sure to bring a flurry of feathered friends to your garden.
Also Read: How to Create a Simple Yet Effective Bird Feeder Using Everyday Materials: DIY
1. Homemade Nectar Recipe
Hummingbirds are particularly attracted to nectar because it provides the essential energy they need. You can easily make a safe and nutritious nectar solution at home with just sugar and water.
Ingredients:
- 1 part white granulated sugar
- 4 parts water
Instructions:
- Boil the Water: Start by boiling the water. This helps to ensure that the solution is sterile and safe for the birds.
- Dissolve the Sugar: Add the sugar to the boiling water and stir until fully dissolved. It’s important to use white granulated sugar, as other types of sugar can be harmful to hummingbirds.
- Cool Down: Let the solution cool to room temperature before filling your feeder.
- Fill Your Feeder: Carefully pour the nectar into your hummingbird feeder.
Tips:
- No Red Dye: Avoid adding red dye to the nectar. Although hummingbirds are attracted to red, the dye can be harmful. Instead, choose a feeder with red components to attract them.
- Regular Cleaning: Clean your feeder at least once a week with hot water and a brush to prevent mold and bacteria growth.
2. DIY Fruit Feeder
Fruit-loving birds like orioles and tanagers are attracted to fresh fruit, especially oranges and apples. You can create a simple fruit feeder with materials you likely already have at home.
Materials:
- A sturdy branch or a section of a tree trunk
- A hook or wire for hanging
- Fresh oranges, apples, or other fruits
Instructions:
- Prepare the Branch: If you’re using a tree branch or trunk section, make sure it’s clean and dry. Drill small holes if you wish to add more hanging points for the fruits.
- Attach the Hook: Secure a hook or wire to the top of your branch or trunk section for hanging.
- Add the Fruit: Slice oranges, apples, or your chosen fruit in half. Secure them onto the branch by impaling them on any protruding parts or using additional hooks or nails.
- Hang Your Feeder: Choose a shady spot to hang your fruit feeder. This will help keep the fruit fresh for longer.
Tips:
- Regular Replacement: Replace the fruits every few days to keep them fresh and attract more birds.
- Water Source: Adding a water source near your feeders will make your backyard even more attractive to birds.
Product Recommendations
To complement your homemade feeders, consider these top-rated products from Amazon.com:
- Hummingbird Feeders: Look for feeders with bright red components to attract hummingbirds without the need for harmful dyes. Models with ant moats and bee guards are especially useful.
- Fruit Feeder Holders: For a more durable solution, search for metal or plastic fruit feeder holders. These products are designed to hold fruit securely and are easy to clean.
Also Read: Summer Bird Watching: The Ultimate Guide to Window Feeders
Wrapping up: The Best Homemade Nectar & Fruit Feeder is Now Ready
Creating a bird-friendly backyard with homemade nectar and fruit feeders is a rewarding activity that can bring you closer to nature. By following these recipes and tips, you’ll not only enjoy the delightful sight of hummingbirds and fruit-loving birds but also contribute to their well-being during the summer months.
