Boiling Is Recommended: While not strictly necessary, boiling sugar water is recommended to dissolve the sugar completely and help eliminate any potential impurities in the water.
Prevents Fermentation: Boiling the mixture helps prevent fermentation, which could harm the hummingbirds by creating mold or bacteria in the nectar.
Simple and Safe: Boiling ensures that the sugar water is safe for hummingbirds by killing off any contaminants and ensuring the solution is the correct consistency.
Room Temperature After Boiling: After boiling, allow the mixture to cool to room temperature before filling the feeder to avoid burning the birds or causing them distress.
No Need for Coloring: You don’t need to add red dye or coloring to your nectar—hummingbirds are attracted to the color red on the feeder, not in the nectar itself.
Storage Tips: After preparing the nectar, you can store leftover sugar water in the fridge, but it should be used within a week to ensure freshness and prevent bacterial growth.