Hummingbirds are a joy to watch as they flit around the garden with their iridescent feathers and lightning-fast wings. These tiny birds have a high metabolism and require a lot of energy to keep their wings moving at such a rapid pace. One way to attract hummingbirds to your garden is by providing them with a reliable source of food, which is where hummingbird food comes in.
Hummingbird food is a sweet nectar that mimics the natural nectar found in flowers. It’s typically made with a mixture of sugar and water, and some brands may also include vitamins and minerals to provide additional nutrition to hummingbirds. The best hummingbird food should be free of dyes, preservatives, and other harmful additives that could be harmful to hummingbirds.
When choosing the best hummingbird food, it’s important to pay attention to the sugar-to-water ratio. A good rule of thumb is to use a 4:1 ratio of water to sugar, which closely resembles the natural nectar found in flowers. Additionally, the quality of the sugar used is important – opt for organic cane sugar instead of refined white sugar, which can be harmful to hummingbirds.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the best hummingbird food on the market. We’ll consider factors such as sugar-to-water ratio, quality of ingredients, and additional nutrition to help you find the right product for your garden.
Best Hummingbird Food
Hummingbirds are fascinating creatures that require a special diet to maintain their energy levels. Providing them with the right food is crucial for their survival. In this article, we have compiled a list of the best hummingbird food products available on Amazon. These products have been carefully selected based on their quality, nutritional value, and customer reviews. Whether you are a seasoned hummingbird enthusiast or a beginner, you are sure to find the perfect food for your feathered friends on this list.
Kaytee Hummingbird ElectroNectar Wild Bird Food
If you’re looking for a hydrating energy drink for hummingbirds, Kaytee Hummingbird ElectroNectar Wild Bird Food is a great option that not only attracts hummingbirds but also nourishes and hydrates them.
Pros
- Naturally clear hummingbird nectar formula nourishes and hydrates hummingbirds
- Contains electrolytes
- Ready to use, no need to add sugar or water
Cons
- A bit expensive compared to other brands
- Some customers reported mold growth in the feeder after using this product
- Some customers said it attracted bees and wasps to their yard
Kaytee Hummingbird ElectroNectar Wild Bird Food is a great option for those who want to provide their hummingbirds with a hydrating and nourishing drink. The formula is clear, which means there are no added colors or dyes that might be harmful to hummingbirds. It also contains electrolytes, which can help keep hummingbirds hydrated during hot weather.
One downside of this product is that it’s a bit expensive compared to other brands of hummingbird food. Additionally, some customers have reported mold growth in their feeder after using this product. Others have said that it attracted bees and wasps to their yard, which could be a problem for some people.
Overall, if you’re looking for a high-quality hummingbird food that provides nourishment and hydration, Kaytee Hummingbird ElectroNectar Wild Bird Food is a great choice. Just be aware that it might be a bit more expensive than other brands, and you may need to take steps to prevent mold growth and keep bees and wasps away from your feeder.
Perky-Pet Hummingbird Food Concentrate
If you’re looking for an easy-to-use hummingbird food concentrate, then Perky-Pet Hummingbird Food Concentrate is a great choice.
Pros
- Easy to mix with water
- Made of 100% sucrose, which is an essential energy source for hummingbirds
- Vibrant red color attracts hummingbirds to your feeder
Cons
- Contains red dye, which some people believe is harmful to hummingbirds
- Some users report that it attracts ants
- Must be stored in a cool, dry place
Perky-Pet Hummingbird Food Concentrate is a liquid concentrate that makes up to 128 oz of hummingbird nectar when mixed with water. The concentrate is made of 100% sucrose, which is an essential energy source for hummingbirds. The vibrant red color of the concentrate attracts hummingbirds to your feeder.
One potential downside of this product is that it contains red dye, which some people believe is harmful to hummingbirds. Additionally, some users report that it attracts ants, so it’s important to keep your feeder clean and free of spills. Finally, the concentrate must be stored in a cool, dry place to prevent spoilage.
Overall, if you’re looking for an easy-to-use hummingbird food concentrate that will attract hummingbirds to your feeder, then Perky-Pet Hummingbird Food Concentrate is a great choice. Just be sure to follow the instructions carefully and keep your feeder clean to ensure the health of visiting hummingbirds.
Best-1 Hummingbird Nectar
If you’re looking for a high-quality hummingbird food that is easy to prepare and made of 100% natural ingredients, then the Best-1 Hummingbird Nectar instant mix is an excellent option for you.
Pros
- Made of 100% natural high-energy food with no coloring added
- Easy to prepare with complete mixing instructions provided on the label
- Boosts hummingbirds’ energy levels and compliments their everyday diet of insects
Cons
- Some customers may prefer a different flavor
- The jumbo jar may not be suitable for those who only have a few hummingbirds visiting their garden
- The product may not be available in all areas
This hummingbird food is a great choice for those who want to attract hummingbirds to their backyard or garden. The nectar is a sweet and refreshing treat that helps boost hummingbirds’ energy levels and compliments their everyday diet of insects. The instant nectar mix is made of 100 percent pure natural high-energy food with no coloring added, ensuring that it is safe and healthy for the birds.
The Best-1 Hummingbird Nectar instant mix is also very easy to prepare, with complete mixing instructions provided on the label. The 14-ounce jumbo jar makes 56 ounces of nectar, which is enough to last for a while. However, some customers may prefer a different flavor, and the jumbo jar may not be suitable for those who only have a few hummingbirds visiting their garden.
Overall, the Best-1 Hummingbird Nectar instant mix is an excellent choice for those who want to attract hummingbirds to their backyard or garden. It is made of high-quality natural ingredients, easy to prepare, and helps boost hummingbirds’ energy levels.
Perky-Pet Hummingbird Nectar Concentrate
If you’re looking for a hummingbird food that’s easy to use and cost-effective, Perky-Pet Hummingbird Nectar Concentrate is a great choice.
Pros
- Made of 100% sucrose – closely mimics natural flower nectar and provides hummingbirds with essential energy.
- Attract hummingbirds – the nectar’s red color mimics the vibrantly colored flowers that hummingbirds visit in nature, making it irresistible.
- Easy to use – simply mix the concentrate with water to create the desired amount of nectar – no boiling needed!
Cons
- Some hummingbirds may prefer a sweeter nectar mixture.
- The concentrate may not dissolve completely in cold water.
- The nectar may spoil if left in the feeder for too long.
This nectar concentrate is made of 100% sucrose, which closely mimics natural flower nectar and provides hummingbirds with just the essential energy they need to thrive. The red color of the nectar also mimics the vibrantly colored flowers that hummingbirds visit in nature, making it irresistible to these tiny birds.
One of the best things about this nectar concentrate is how easy it is to use. Simply mix the concentrate with water to create the desired amount of nectar – no boiling needed! Plus, the 2 lb bag of powder concentrate makes up to 192 oz of hummingbird nectar, so you’ll be in good supply through many visits.
While some hummingbirds may prefer a sweeter nectar mixture, this concentrate is a great choice for those looking for a cost-effective and easy-to-use option. However, it’s important to note that the concentrate may not dissolve completely in cold water and the nectar may spoil if left in the feeder for too long.
Kaytee Hummingbird Electro Nectar Ready to Use
If you’re looking for a ready-to-use hummingbird food, Kaytee Electro Nectar is a great option to consider.
Pros
- Comes in a 2 pack of 64-ounce containers, providing a total of 128 ounces of food.
- Ready to use, no need to add sugar or water.
- Provides energy, nourishment, and hydration to hummingbirds.
Cons
- Some users found it to be a bit pricey compared to other options.
- A few customers reported that the nectar attracted bees and ants.
- A couple of users mentioned that the nectar seemed to spoil quickly in hot weather.
Kaytee Electro Nectar is a convenient option for those who want to attract hummingbirds to their yard without the hassle of making their own nectar. The two-pack of 64-ounce containers provides plenty of food to keep your hummingbirds happy and well-fed.
One of the biggest advantages of this product is that it’s ready to use right out of the container, so you don’t need to worry about mixing up your own nectar. This makes it a great option for those who are short on time or who don’t want to deal with the mess of making their own nectar.
In addition to being convenient, Kaytee Electro Nectar is also a nutritious option for hummingbirds. It provides them with the energy, nourishment, and hydration they need to thrive. Plus, it’s naturally clear with no added coloring, so you can feel good about what you’re feeding your feathered friends.
While there are many pros to this product, there are a few potential downsides to keep in mind. Some users found it to be a bit pricey compared to other options on the market. Additionally, a few customers reported that the nectar attracted bees and ants, which can be a nuisance. Finally, a couple of users mentioned that the nectar seemed to spoil quickly in hot weather, so it may not be the best option for those who live in warmer climates.
Overall, if you’re looking for a convenient and nutritious hummingbird food, Kaytee Electro Nectar is definitely worth considering. Just be aware of the potential downsides before making your purchase.
Sapphire Labs Naturally Fresh Hummingbird Nectar with Nectar Defender Lasts Longer in Hummingbird Feeders | Makes 96 oz of Clear Hummingbird Nectar | an Easy Mix Hummingbird Nectar Powder | 2 Pack 1.3 Pound (Pack of 2)
If you want to attract hummingbirds to your yard, Sapphire Labs Naturally Fresh Hummingbird Nectar with Nectar Defender is a great option.
Pros
- Protects hummingbirds with added micronutrient
- No boiling needed, just add water and mix
- Stays fresh longer with Nectar Defender
Cons
- No scoop included
- Some customers received expired product
- Some customers experienced mold growth
Sapphire Labs Naturally Fresh Hummingbird Nectar with Nectar Defender is a powdered nectar that is easy to mix with water. It contains a micronutrient that prevents nectar spoilage, ensuring that hummingbirds are protected. Additionally, there is no need to boil the nectar, making it a convenient option for those who don’t have time to boil their own nectar. Plus, the Nectar Defender helps the nectar stay fresh for up to two weeks.
Some customers have reported that they did not receive a scoop with their purchase, which can make it difficult to measure the correct amount of nectar. Additionally, some customers received expired product or experienced mold growth, which can be a concern for the health of the hummingbirds.
Overall, Sapphire Labs Naturally Fresh Hummingbird Nectar with Nectar Defender is a great option for those who want to attract hummingbirds to their yard. However, customers should be aware of the potential issues with expired product or mold growth.
Pennington ElectroNectar Hummingbird Food
If you want to attract hummingbirds to your feeder and keep them healthy, Pennington ElectroNectar Hummingbird Food is a good choice.
Pros
- Designed to attract hummingbirds to your feeder
- Added electrolytes keep hummingbirds healthy and hydrated
- Contains no red dye or other artificial colors
Cons
- Needs to be refrigerated after opening
- Only available in one size
- May attract wasps as well as hummingbirds
Pennington ElectroNectar Hummingbird Food is a ready-to-use nectar that mimics flower nectar and contains added electrolytes to keep hummingbirds hydrated and healthy. It is also naturally clear and contains no red dye or other artificial colors. For best results, clean your feeder before adding Pennington ElectroNectar, and refrigerate it after opening to retain freshness between refills.
This product has received high ratings from customers, who appreciate its effectiveness in attracting hummingbirds and keeping them healthy. However, some customers have noted that it may also attract wasps, which can be a nuisance.
Overall, if you want to attract hummingbirds to your feeder and provide them with a healthy source of nectar, Pennington ElectroNectar Hummingbird Food is a good choice.
Perky-Pet 522 Ready-to-Use Clear Hummingbird Nectar
A convenient and bird-friendly option for those who want to attract hummingbirds to their yard.
Pros
- Mimics real flower nectar and contains no red dye
- Contains 100% more sugar than standard Perky-Pet nectar (22% total sugar)
- Convenient and easy to use
Cons
- Some users reported that the cans were smaller than expected
- A few users did not see as many hummingbirds attracted to this nectar as with other brands
- May not be cost-effective for those who need to change their feeders often
Perky-Pet Ready-to-Use Clear Hummingbird Nectar is a great option for those who want to attract hummingbirds to their yard without the hassle of mixing nectar themselves. The bird-friendly recipe mimics real flower nectar and contains no red dye, making it a healthier option for the birds. Additionally, the nectar contains 100% more sugar than standard Perky-Pet nectar, providing hummingbirds with the essential energy they need to thrive.
The convenient aluminum can design makes it easy to use and reduces plastic waste by up to 95% compared to standard Perky-Pet plastic bottles. Simply pop open the can, pour the nectar into your favorite hummingbird feeder, recycle the empty can, and enjoy watching your hummingbird visitors. The nectar comes ready to use, so there’s no need to mix it with water or boil it.
However, some users reported that the cans were smaller than expected, which may not be cost-effective for those who need to change their feeders often. A few users also did not see as many hummingbirds attracted to this nectar as with other brands.
More Birds Health Plus Ready to Use Hummingbird Nectar Natural Red (700)
If you’re looking for a natural and mess-free way to feed hummingbirds, More Birds Health Plus Ready to Use Hummingbird Nectar Natural Red (700) is a good option to consider.
Pros
- Naturally dyed with carmine, no artificial dye or flavor.
- Resealable container keeps nectar fresh and allows you to only use what you need.
- Added vitamins and calcium promote successful egg hatching.
Cons
- Some hummingbirds may not prefer the taste of this nectar.
- The red added color in hummingbird nectar is not necessary for attracting hummingbirds.
- The price may be higher compared to other similar products.
More Birds Health Plus Ready to Use Hummingbird Nectar Natural Red is a natural and mess-free way to feed hummingbirds. The added carmine provides a natural red coloring without any artificial dyes or flavors. The resealable container allows you to only use what you need, while the leftover nectar in the bottle always stays fresh. Vitamins and calcium are added to promote successful egg hatching.
However, some hummingbirds may not prefer the taste of this nectar. Additionally, the red added color in hummingbird nectar is not necessary for attracting hummingbirds. Lastly, the price may be higher compared to other similar products.
Hummer’s Galore Hummingbird Food
If you’re looking for a natural and healthy hummingbird food, Hummer’s Galore Hummingbird Food is a great option.
Pros
- Provides natural, safe nutrition
- Pre-measured packets make feeding easy
- Triple-sealed for maximum preservation
Cons
- Some users found it pricey compared to other options
- A few users reported that it attracted ants
- Some users found it difficult to mix the powder
Hummer’s Galore Hummingbird Food is a convenient and healthy option for those who want to provide their feathered friends with extra energy. With its nutrient-rich formula, it provides the essential vitamins, minerals, and energy to help them thrive and fly. The natural, preservative-free hummingbird nectar concentrate ensures a safe meal for your winged companions.
Thanks to its pre-measured packets, feeding hummingbirds is easy. The clear hummingbird nectar is triple-sealed for maximum preservation, ensuring top freshness. Each of the three packs contains four packets that make 16 oz each, ensuring your hummers enjoy 192 oz of nourishing nectar.
While some users found it pricey compared to other options, many found it to be an excellent product that attracted hummingbirds almost immediately. However, some users found it difficult to mix the powder, and a few reported that it attracted ants.
Overall, if you’re looking for a natural and healthy hummingbird food that’s easy to use, Hummer’s Galore Hummingbird Food is a great option.
Buying Guide
When looking for the best hummingbird food, there are several factors to consider. Here are some important features to look for:
Type of Food
Hummingbirds primarily feed on nectar, which is a sweet liquid produced by flowers. When buying hummingbird food, make sure it is made of high-quality nectar. Avoid products that contain artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives, as they can be harmful to hummingbirds.
Sugar Content
Hummingbird food should have a sugar content of around 20-25%. Too much sugar can be harmful to hummingbirds, while too little can be insufficient for their energy needs. Check the label to ensure the sugar content is within the recommended range.
Bottle Size
Consider the size of the bottle when buying hummingbird food. A larger bottle may be more cost-effective in the long run, but it may also be prone to spoilage if not used up quickly. A smaller bottle may be more convenient for occasional use.
Ease of Use
Look for hummingbird food that is easy to prepare and use. Some products require mixing with water, while others come ready-to-use. Choose a product that fits your needs and preferences.
Price
Price is always a factor when making a purchase. Compare prices of different brands and types of hummingbird food to find the best value for your money. Keep in mind that cheaper products may not be of the same quality as more expensive ones.
By considering these factors, you can choose the best hummingbird food for your feathered friends.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best food for hummingbirds?
The best food for hummingbirds is a simple sugar solution made from white granulated sugar and water. It is important to use a ratio of 4 parts water to 1 part sugar. This mimics the natural nectar found in flowers and provides the necessary energy and nutrients for hummingbirds.
What is the best store bought hummingbird food?
There are many store bought hummingbird foods available on the market. It is important to choose a brand that does not contain any artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives. Look for a brand that uses natural ingredients and has a high sugar content.
Is 3 1 or 4 1 better for hummingbird food?
A ratio of 4 parts water to 1 part sugar is better for hummingbird food. This is because it mimics the natural nectar found in flowers and provides the necessary energy and nutrients for hummingbirds. A ratio of 3 parts water to 1 part sugar is too weak and does not provide enough energy for hummingbirds.
Do hummingbirds prefer homemade nectar?
Hummingbirds do not have a preference for homemade nectar over store bought nectar. As long as the nectar is made with the correct ratio of 4 parts water to 1 part sugar and does not contain any artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives, hummingbirds will drink it.
What not to feed hummingbirds?
It is important not to feed hummingbirds anything other than sugar water or nectar. Hummingbirds cannot digest bread, fruit, honey, or any other type of food. Feeding them anything other than sugar water or nectar can be harmful to their health.
What can I feed hummingbirds besides sugar water?
Hummingbirds can feed on natural nectar from flowers, which is their primary food source. You can also provide them with a hummingbird feeder filled with sugar water or nectar. It is important to clean the feeder regularly to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria.