10 Best Hummingbird Food to Attract More Feathered Friends

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Hummingbirds are fascinating creatures known for their brilliant colors and impressive aerial displays. Providing them with a reliable source of food in our backyards not only supports their well-being, but also brings us great joy in observing these vibrant little birds. While they primarily feed on nectar from flowers, hummingbird feeders filled with store-bought or homemade hummingbird food can be a valuable supplement, especially during times when natural sources of nectar are scarce.

Hummingbird food typically consists of a sugar-water solution designed to mimic the natural nectar they find in flowers. To ensure that we’re offering the best possible nourishment for these delicate birds, it’s essential to choose the right hummingbird food. Factors such as appropriate sugar concentration, additives or preservatives, and overall quality must be taken into consideration.

Selecting the ideal hummingbird food involves finding a product with the correct sugar-to-water ratio, as this greatly impacts the energy hummingbirds derive from the mixture. It’s also crucial to avoid any food that contains artificial colorings, as these can be harmful to the birds. The cleanliness of the feeder is another aspect to consider, as mold and bacteria growth can occur if the food is not changed regularly.

With all these considerations in mind, I devoted extensive time and effort to researching and testing various hummingbird food options to identify the best of the best in terms of nutrition, safety, and convenience for our feathered friends.

Best Hummingbird Food

I’ve researched and tested numerous hummingbird food options to curate the ultimate list of the best products available. It’s time to attract those charming little visitors to your garden with my top picks.

Kaytee Hummingbird ElectroNectar Wild Bird Food

 

Kaytee Hummingbird ElectroNectar is a great choice for attracting and nourishing hummingbirds with its hydrating, electrolyte-rich formula.

Pros

  • No added coloring, making it safer for hummingbirds
  • Contains electrolytes that nourish and hydrate the birds
  • Ready-to-use formula, no need to add sugar or water

Cons

  • Slightly more expensive than homemade sugar-water solutions
  • Some users report a strong, soap-like smell
  • Birds may still prefer homemade mixtures

When I first tried the Kaytee Hummingbird ElectroNectar, I was excited about its unique, hydrating energy drink formula. Unlike traditional feeder-nectars, this product aims to nourish and hydrate hummingbirds, providing them with essential electrolytes. Additionally, I appreciated that there were no added colorings, making it a safer option for the tiny birds.

After using the ElectroNectar, I found that it was easy to pour into the feeder without any spills or messes. The hummingbirds seemed to be attracted to the feeder and enjoyed the nectar. Although slightly more expensive than homemade sugar-water solutions, I felt that the added benefits of electrolytes and no coloring were worth the extra cost.

However, I did notice a strong, soap-like odor coming from the product before I poured it into the feeder. This concerned me at first, but it didn’t deter the hummingbirds from visiting the feeder. Additionally, some users have mentioned that their hummingbirds still prefer homemade mixtures over this product.

In conclusion, the Kaytee Hummingbird ElectroNectar Wild Bird Food is a good choice for those looking to nourish and hydrate hummingbirds with an electrolyte-rich nectar. Despite its slightly higher cost and strong odor, it offers a safer, more nutritious option than traditional sugar-water mixtures.

Perky-Pet Red Hummingbird Liquid Nectar Concentrate

 

This Perky-Pet Hummingbird Nectar Concentrate is a convenient option for attracting hummingbirds with vibrant color and easy-to-mix formula.

Pros

  • Simple mixing process with no boiling needed
  • 100% sucrose for essential energy source
  • The attractive red color draws hummingbirds to the feeder

Cons

  • The sticky formula can be messy
  • Might not attract as many hummingbirds as other options
  • Bottle cap can be fragile

I recently started using this Perky-Pet Hummingbird Nectar Concentrate and found it incredibly easy to use. I just had to mix it with water, and there was no need for boiling. The 100% sucrose content in this concentrate is great, as it provides the essential energy source that hummingbirds seek.

The vibrant red color of the liquid is visually appealing and helps attract more hummingbirds to my feeder. However, I did notice that the formula is quite sticky, and if you accidentally spill it, cleaning up can be a bit of a challenge. Also, while it does attract hummingbirds, I didn’t see as much activity around my feeder as I had hoped.

Additionally, the bottle cap on the concentrate is somewhat fragile, so be careful when handling it to avoid any cracks or leakage. Overall, the Perky-Pet Hummingbird Food Concentrate is a convenient and attractive option for those looking to provide a source of energy for hummingbirds in their yard, but it may not be the most effective option in terms of attracting a large number of birds.

Best-1 4 Jars Original Hummingbird Instant Nectar

 

I highly recommend the Best-1 Original Hummingbird Instant Nectar for its natural, high-quality ingredients and easy-to-use packaging.

Pros

  • 100% pure natural high energy food
  • No coloring added
  • Simple mixing instructions with a measuring guide on the label

Cons

  • Comes in a 14-ounce jumbo jar, which might be too much for some users
  • May require frequent refilling of the feeder
  • Slightly higher price than other nectar options

After trying out the Best-1 Original Hummingbird Instant Nectar, I noticed a significant increase in the number of hummingbirds visiting my feeder. Unlike other brands, this nectar is 100% pure and natural, providing a high-energy boost for these beautiful birds without any added coloring.

The 14-ounce jumbo jar is a convenient size for those who have multiple feeders or need to refill often. The jar also has a measuring guide on the label, making it simple to mix the nectar with water. I found the mixing process quick and hassle-free.

While I enjoyed using this hummingbird nectar, there were a few drawbacks that should be considered. One is that the size of the jar might be too large for users with smaller feeders or for those who do not have many hummingbirds visiting their yards. Additionally, the nectar may require more frequent refilling of the feeder compared to other brands. And finally, the price is a bit higher than some other nectar options, but considering the quality and convenience, I think it’s worth it.

Overall, the Best-1 Original Hummingbird Instant Nectar is a fantastic choice for attracting more hummingbirds to your yard. The natural ingredients provide a healthy and delicious treat for these tiny birds, and the easy-to-mix formula makes it a breeze to keep your feeders full.

Pennington Electronectar Hummingbird Food

 

I highly recommend Pennington Electronectar Hummingbird Food for those who want to attract hummingbirds to their feeders while providing them with a healthy and hydrating nectar.

Pros

  • Ready to use and doesn’t require mixing
  • Naturally clear hummingbird food, similar to flower nectar
  • Contains no red dye or artificial colors

Cons

  • Can be pricey
  • Needs to be refrigerated after opening
  • Some bottles may have packaging issues

The Pennington Electronectar Hummingbird Food is an excellent choice for hummingbird enthusiasts, as it effectively attracts hummingbirds to your feeder without the need for any mixing. I found it very convenient and easy to use, as it’s pre-mixed and ready to pour straight into the feeder.

What I particularly like about this hummingbird food is that it’s naturally clear, mimicking the appearance of flower nectar. This means it doesn’t contain any artificial colors or red dye, which I know some hummingbirds are sensitive to. In my experience, hummingbirds were just as attracted to this clear nectar as they were to the red alternatives.

Another advantage of Pennington Electronectar Hummingbird Food is its added electrolytes. These electrolytes help to keep the hummingbirds hydrated and healthy, which is a top priority for anyone who loves these little creatures. I noticed that the hummingbirds visiting my feeder seemed lively and energetic, so the electrolytes seem to be doing their job.

However, I did notice a few drawbacks with this product. First, it can be a bit pricey compared to other options on the market. In addition, the nectar must be refrigerated after opening, so be prepared to dedicate some fridge space to the bottle. Finally, there were a few instances of packaging issues, with some bottles appearing cloudy or having a damaged cap. This is something to keep an eye on when purchasing this product.

Overall, the Pennington Electronectar Hummingbird Food is a great option for those who want to provide a healthy and hydrating nectar for their hummingbirds while attracting them to their feeder. Despite its minor drawbacks, I believe that the benefits of this nectar far outweigh the cons, making it a worthwhile investment for hummingbird lovers.

Perky-Pet 522 Clear Hummingbird Nectar

 

This hummingbird nectar is a convenient and eco-friendly choice that attracts a variety of hummingbirds.

Pros

  • Bird-friendly recipe with no artificial colors
  • High sugar content for better energy source
  • Eco-friendly aluminum can packaging

Cons

  • Some hummingbirds may not be attracted to it
  • May need to be refrigerated to maintain freshness
  • Price may be higher compared to homemade sugar water

Ever since I started using the Perky-Pet 522 Clear Hummingbird Nectar, I noticed that my backyard became more vibrant and busy with various hummingbirds visiting. This ready-to-use nectar has a bird-friendly formula that closely mimics the natural flower nectar without the harmful red dye, making it a healthier alternative for these tiny creatures.

The 22% sugar content present in this nectar supplies hummingbirds with more energy than the standard nectar offered by Perky-Pet. Additionally, the recyclable aluminum can design is an eco-friendly solution that significantly reduces plastic waste compared to regular plastic bottles. No boiling or mixing is needed; I just pop open the can, pour the nectar into the feeder, and recycle the can.

However, I observed that not all hummingbirds in my area seemed attracted to this nectar. Some would take a sip and then fly away, while others would keep coming back for more. It’s possible that the preferences may vary for different populations of hummingbirds. I also found that refrigeration is necessary to maintain freshness, as storing the nectar at room temperature might attract ants or other insects. Lastly, while I do appreciate the convenience and eco-friendly aspects of this product, it is slightly more expensive than making homemade sugar water.

Overall, if you’re looking for a convenient, bird-friendly, and eco-conscious option, the Perky-Pet 522 Clear Hummingbird Nectar is worth a try. Just be aware that some hummingbirds may not be as attracted to it, and the price might be a bit higher than making your own sugar water.

Songbird Essentials Clear Hummingbird Nectar

 

This (2 Pack) Songbird Essentials Clear Hummingbird Nectar is a high-quality option that I highly recommend for attracting and feeding hummingbirds effortlessly.

Pros

  • Easy-to-mix granules
  • No harmful dyes
  • Affordably priced

Cons

  • Not pre-made (requires water)
  • Can attract ants to the feeder
  • Limited to 24 ounces per pack

After trying several different types of hummingbird food, I found that the Songbird Essentials Clear Hummingbird Nectar really stood out among the rest. The granule form of the nectar is easy to mix and the pack size is perfect for a moderate number of feeders. The hummingbirds in my garden seem to love it, as there’s a constant hub of activity around my feeders.

One of the notable features of this nectar is that it does not contain any harmful dyes, which can be bad for the birds. Some other brands include artificial colorants that may make the nectar look visually appealing but can have detrimental effects on the hummingbirds. With Songbird Essentials, I have peace of mind knowing that I’m providing a safe and healthy food source for these beautiful, delicate creatures.

However, it’s essential to mention that the nectar is not pre-made and needs to be mixed with water. Although it’s not a major inconvenience for me, it might be for some people who prefer a ready-made solution. The nectar can also attract ants to the feeder, so it’s crucial to keep an eye on that and take appropriate measures to prevent a potential ant infestation.

In conclusion, the Songbird Essentials Clear Hummingbird Nectar is an excellent choice for anyone looking to provide these beautiful birds with a safe and nutritious food source. The easy-to-mix granules and the absence of harmful dyes make it a wonderful option, and its affordable price is a bonus. Just be aware that it is a concentrated product that requires mixing with water and can attract ants, so take precautions as needed.

Kaytee Hummingbird Electro Nectar (64oz, 2 case)

 

I found the Kaytee Hummingbird Electro Nectar to be a valuable addition to my garden, attracting numerous hummingbirds with its ready-to-use formula.

Pros

  • No need to dilute or add water
  • Provides energy and nourishment for hummingbirds
  • No artificial coloring added – clear liquid

Cons

  • May need frequent refilling due to quick consumption
  • Packaging could be cleaner
  • Potentially pricier than homemade solutions

Having used the Kaytee Hummingbird Electro Nectar for several seasons, I appreciate that it comes in a ready-to-use formula without the need to add sugar or water. The naturally clear liquid without added coloring is also a relief, as I prefer not to expose hummingbirds to artificial dyes.

When I filled my feeder with this nectar, I quickly noticed an increased number of visiting hummingbirds. They seemed to enjoy the formula, consuming it rapidly and requiring me to refill the feeder more often. While it makes me happy to see them enjoying the food, it does mean the nectar gets used up pretty quickly.

The only issue I encountered was with the packaging of the product – both bottles arrived a bit dirty, which was a slight disappointment. However, the nectar inside was unaffected, and once cleaned, it was good to go.

In comparison to homemade nectar solutions, the Kaytee Hummingbird Electro Nectar might be on the pricier side. However, I believe the convenience of the ready-to-use formula and the fact that it requires no additional preparation justifies the price.

Overall, I recommend the Kaytee Hummingbird Electro Nectar for those who want a convenient, ready-to-use hummingbird food that satisfies the little visitors without exposing them to any artificial coloring.

Perky-Pet Hummingbird Liquid Nectar Concentrate

 

I highly recommend the Perky-Pet Hummingbird Liquid Nectar Concentrate for its ease of use, economical value, and hummingbird-friendly formula.

Pros

  • Made of 100% sucrose, closely mimicking natural flower nectar
  • Easy to mix with water without boiling
  • Makes up to 128 oz of hummingbird nectar

Cons

  • May not attract as many hummingbirds as expected
  • No red dye, which can be a plus or minus depending on personal preference
  • Lack of refrigeration needed might impact freshness

After using the Perky-Pet Hummingbird Liquid Nectar Concentrate, I found the mixing process to be hassle-free since I didn’t need to boil any water. The 32 oz concentrate provides ample nectar, lasting through many hummingbird visits.

The fact that this concentrates closely resembles natural flower nectar adds to the appeal for our little feathered friends. Although it doesn’t contain red dyes, which some believe help attract hummingbirds, I appreciate that there are no artificial ingredients in the product.

However, I did notice that the number of visiting hummingbirds fluctuated; it could be attributed to factors such as location or season. Additionally, while it’s convenient that refrigeration is not required, I worry about the freshness of the nectar over a longer period.

Overall, I am pleased with the Perky-Pet Hummingbird Liquid Nectar Concentrate’s performance. Despite a few minor drawbacks, it remains an excellent, easy-to-use, and cost-effective choice for feeding hummingbirds in your backyard.

Buying Guide

When it comes to choosing the best hummingbird food, you might feel overwhelmed with the numerous options available. Don’t worry! I’m here to guide you through the selection process to ensure you provide your feathered friends with the best possible nutrition.

Firstly, consider the sugar concentration in hummingbird food. The ideal sugar concentration should mimic the natural nectar found in flowers, which ranges between 12% and 25%. Look for options that meet these criteria to ensure the health and happiness of these tiny birds.

When purchasing hummingbird food, make sure that the product is free from additives like red dye, artificial sweeteners, and preservatives. These ingredients can be harmful to the birds and may cause health issues over time.

Another important aspect to consider is the ease of preparing the hummingbird food. Some options require dissolving sugar or a similar substance in water, while others come ready to serve. Choosing an easy-to-prepare option might save you some time, but make sure it still meets the nutritional requirements set earlier in this guide.

The type of packaging is worth considering as well when selecting hummingbird food. Some products come in convenient individual serving packs, which make it easy to mix and clean. However, choosing a larger bulk option could save you money in the long run, so weigh your priorities and decide accordingly.

Finally, while price is not the sole determinant in selecting the best hummingbird food, it’s a factor to consider. Make sure to select a well-balanced product that also fits within your budget.

In summary, when choosing the right hummingbird food, focus on the sugar concentration, absence of harmful additives, ease of preparation, packaging type, and price. By keeping these factors in mind, you’ll ensure the health and happiness of your hummingbird visitors.

Dawn Caffrey

Dawn Caffrey

Hummingbirds just make me happy - in fact, I read somewhere that they represent happiness in Native American totems.
Let me tell you what I found about feeders from treating the hummingbirds in my back yard.