Hummingbirds: Feeding, Facts & Care

The right nectar recipe, migration timing, feeders and fascinating facts

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Few backyard visitors are as loved as hummingbirds. This hub gathers our complete guides — from the exact nectar recipe to when they arrive and leave — in one place.

The correct nectar recipe

The safe, proven mix is 4 parts water to 1 part plain white sugar — no red dye, no honey, no substitutes. Full instructions are in our hummingbird food (nectar) recipe.

What hummingbirds eat

Nectar is only half the story — hummingbirds also eat small insects for protein. See what do hummingbirds eat?

Migration: when they come and go

Knowing when hummingbirds arrive and leave tells you when to put feeders out and take them down. Read hummingbird migration.

Feeder tips

Clean feeders often to keep hummingbirds safe, and place them well. See how to clean a hummingbird feeder and where to hang a hummingbird feeder.

Lifespan and fun facts

Hummingbirds are astonishing little animals. Learn how long hummingbirds live and browse our hummingbird facts.

Explore our hummingbird guides

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Frequently asked questions

What is the correct ratio for hummingbird nectar?

Four parts water to one part plain white sugar. Never use red dye, honey, brown sugar or artificial sweeteners.

When should I take my hummingbird feeders down?

Leaving feeders up does not stop hummingbirds migrating. A common rule is to keep them up until a couple of weeks after you see your last bird — see our migration guide.

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