Just in case you were unsure about this, it is not necessary for you to buy the pre-made nectar solution to fill your hummingbird feeders. While commercial nectar supposedly contains extra vitamins, proteins, and other things that are important to hummingbirds, it is unnecessary to use this because the birds will get all the nutrients they need through the flower nectar and insects that they consume.Hummingbirds want the flowers they visit to have a nectar consentration of about 21 percent. Also, a hummingbird will generally eat between 400-500 insects per day, but the number will be greater on rainy days.
It is important to keep in mind that all hummingbirds are looking for when they feed from your hummingbird feeders is a quick source of energy and this can be provided through ordinary white cane sugar. The white cane sugar will not harm the hummingbirds and it helps provide the hummingbirds the necessary fuel for capturing bugs, flying, hovering, and other normal activities.
Comercial nectar also contains red dye. This is not necessary and has been found to be harmful to the hummingbirds.Red dye is believed to cause brain tumors and other defects in the birds. This is still being studied, but why even take the risk of causing harm to the hummingbirds. Do yourself and the birds a big favor, make your own sugar solution or nectar for your feeders, because you will save yourself some money and you can assure that the solution is absolutely safe for the birds.
Just a reminder, to make your own sugar solution or nectar use the following:1 part white cane sugar to 4 parts water.