As a hummingbird enthusiast there are some things that you can do to help avoid contributing to the injury or illness of a hummingbird. The information listed below is intended to serve as a reminder, because no one would wish to harm the hummingbird.
- The hummingbird feeder must be kept clean at all times! The build-up of mold or bacteria can be extemely harmful to the hummingbirds.
- Be sure to change your nectar solution frequenly to prevent it from spoiling.
- When making your own nectar solution, use only granulated white sugar and not red food coloring, honey, or artificial sweetners.
- Never use pesticides in your garden, as these things can be injested by the hummingbird and cause harm.
- If you use an ant trap with your feeder, fill it with only water.
- Petroleum jelly, tangle foot type products, or cooking oil should never be used as a method to try and prevent common problems with insects. These things can get on the hummingbird’s beak or feathers and cause problems for the bird.