How to Make a DIY Hummingbird Feeder with a Mason Jar
For such small bodies, hummingbirds have a big appetite. They can eat about half their body weight a day, so having a feeder in your yard will keep them coming back for more. Plus, with their speedy, acrobatic movements, they're a treat to watch. With a little planning, your garden can become a haven for hummingbirds. Combine some of their favorite plants with this easy hummingbird feeder and your yard will be an inviting place for these small birds to land, have a drink, and stay awhile. And the ingredients you need to make hummingbird nectar are probably already in your pantry.
Edward Gohlich
How to Make a Hummingbird Feeder
Supplies Needed
4-ounce Mason jar
Red plastic office folder
Pen or marker
Scissors
Hole puncher
½ cup sugar
Hanging Mason jar lid
Step 1: Remove Metal Band and Lid
Remove the original band and lid from the Mason jar. You won't be using these to make your hummingbird feeder, so feel free to repurpose them (try these mini wreath ornaments).
Step 2: Make New Lid
Hummingbirds have a heightened sensitivity to warm, bright colors and have been known to prefer red the most when seeking a snack. Using a red accent will help attract hummingbirds to your feeder. To make the new lid, hold the original lid down on the red plastic folder and trace a circle around it. Use scissors to cut out the circle. Punch four equally-spaced holes in the center.
Step 3: Make Hummingbird Nectar
In a small saucepan, bring 2 cups of water to a boil. Add ½ cup of white sugar and stir until dissolved. You can make more or less of this hummingbird food recipe by sticking to the ratio of four parts water to one part sugar. Don't add dyes or sweeteners, which can be harmful to hummingbirds. Let the sugar solution cool.
Step 4: Assemble Feeder
Fill your Mason jar with the cooled nectar. Place the red plastic insert in the lid with the hanging chain. Screw the new lid onto the jar. Hang the feeder from a sturdy branch or shepherd's hook and watch as hummingbirds congregate.
