DIY Tutorial: Creating Your Own Window Hummingbird Feeder

Attention window hummingbird feeder consumers! Ever wanted to create your own feeder? Our article provides a step-by-step guide on how to make a window hummingbird feeder from scratch. We list all the materials you’ll need, from mason jars to copper wire, and provide detailed instructions on how to put it all together. We also offer maintenance tips to keep your feeder in top condition, including regular cleaning and refilling with fresh nectar. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to attract these beautiful birds to your window with a handmade feeder!

DIY Tutorial: Creating Your Own Window Hummingbird Feeder
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Materials Required

The first material you need for building a window hummingbird feeder is a mason jar. This will serve as the container for the nectar that the hummingbirds will feed on. You can choose any size or shape of mason jar that you like, but keep in mind that larger jars may be too heavy for your window to support. Once you’ve chosen your jar, you’ll need to drill two small holes in the lid, about an inch apart.

Next, you’ll need some copper wire. Choose a thin gauge wire that is easy to manipulate. Cut two pieces of wire, each about 12 inches long. Using pliers, bend one end of each wire into a hook shape, which will attach to the lid of the mason jar. Thread one wire through each of the holes you drilled in the lid, and twist the ends together tightly to secure them in place.

To hang the feeder on your window, you’ll need suction cups. Buy four suction cups, each with a hook attached. Position the cups on the window where you want the feeder to hang, then attach the hooks to the wires that are attached to the jar. Adjust the length of the wires until the feeder hangs at the desired height and distance from the window.

Finally, you’ll need to make the nectar that will attract hummingbirds. To do this, mix one part white granulated sugar with four parts water. Boil the mixture for about a minute, then let it cool completely before pouring it into the jar. Do not add food coloring, honey, or other sweeteners to the nectar, as these can harm the birds.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Materials Required:

– Mason jar with lid

– Copper wire (16 gauge)

– Pliers

– Drill machine

– Hummingbird feeder spout or straw

Step 1: Drill holes in the mason jar lid

Using a drill machine, make two holes in the center of the mason jar lid. The size of the holes should be a little bigger than the diameter of the hummingbird feeder spout or straw.

Step 2: Attach the copper wire hanger on top

Cut around 12 inches of copper wire and form a loop at one end of it. Insert this loop through one of the drilled holes, making sure that the loop is big enough to pass through the hole but small enough to not fall out. Twist the loop tightly around itself to secure it in place. Repeat the same process for the second hole.

Step 3: Secure the copper wire hanger at the bottom

Cut another piece of copper wire, around 4 inches long, and bend it in half to form a V-shape. Pass this V-shaped wire through the loops formed in step 2 and twist it tightly around itself to secure it. This will prevent the wire from slipping and falling off.

Step 4: Insert the hummingbird feeder spout/straw

Insert the hummingbird feeder spout or straw in one of the drilled holes until it reaches the center of the mason jar. Make sure that it’s inserted all the way through so that there are no gaps between the spout and the lid.

Step 5: Fill the jar with hummingbird nectar

Prepare some hummingbird nectar by mixing four parts water with one part white granulated sugar. Stir it until the sugar dissolves completely. Fill the mason jar with this solution, leaving around 1 inch of space from the lid.

Step 6: Hang the feeder by the window

Hang the feeder by the window using the copper wire hanger. Make sure that it’s securely attached and doesn’t wobble when the birds land on it.

Maintenance Tips

Cleaning the Feeder

The first step to maintaining your window hummingbird feeder is to clean it regularly. Hummingbird feeders can quickly become a breeding ground for bacteria and mold if not cleaned properly. To clean the feeder, start by removing any leftover nectar and rinsing it out with warm water. Use a bottle brush or a sponge to scrub the inside of the feeder thoroughly. You can also use a mixture of hot water and vinegar to disinfect the feeder. Rinse it thoroughly with clean water and let it dry before adding fresh nectar. Avoid using soap or bleach, as they can leave harmful residues that may harm the birds.

Refilling the Nectar

Another important aspect of maintaining your window hummingbird feeder is to refill it with fresh nectar every few days. Hummingbirds need a constant supply of nectar to fuel their high metabolism. Stale nectar can ferment quickly, becoming toxic and causing harm to the birds. To make homemade nectar, mix one-part white granulated sugar with four parts of boiling water. Stir to dissolve the sugar completely, cool the mixture, and then fill the feeder. Store leftover nectar in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

Location of the Feeder

The location of your window hummingbird feeder can also affect its maintenance. Placing the feeder in direct sunlight can cause the nectar to spoil faster, so it’s best to place it in a shaded area. Also, avoid placing the feeder near windows or other reflective surfaces, as it can confuse the birds and cause them to collide with the glass. Instead, hang the feeder from a tree branch or a hook in a sheltered area where the birds can easily access it.

Conclusion

In conclusion, a window hummingbird feeder can be a great way to attract these beautiful birds to your garden. However, keeping the feeder clean and refilled with fresh nectar is important to maintain their health and well-being. Regular cleaning using warm water and avoiding soap or bleach, refilling the nectar every few days, and choosing the right location for the feeder are essential maintenance tips to follow. By following these tips, you can enjoy the beauty of hummingbirds while providing them with a safe and healthy source of food.

FAQ

Q1. What materials do I need to create a window hummingbird feeder?

You will need a plastic bottle or jar, a feeding tube, a suction cup, and a hot glue gun. You can also add decorative elements such as paint, ribbon, or beads to personalize your feeder.

Q2. How do I attach the suction cup to the window?

First, clean the chosen window thoroughly with soap and water to ensure the suction cup adheres well. Then, wet the suction cup slightly and press it firmly onto the window. Make sure that the surface is flat, dry, and free of any dirt or debris before attaching the suction cup.

Q3. What kind of nectar should I use for my feeder?

Hummingbirds prefer a sugary solution made of four parts water and one part white granulated sugar. Avoid using honey, artificial sweeteners, or food coloring, as these can be harmful to the birds. Change the nectar every 2-3 days in warm weather and every 4-5 days in cooler temperatures.

Q4. How do I maintain and clean my hummingbird feeder?

Clean the feeder with hot soapy water each time you change the nectar. Use a bottle brush or pipe cleaner to scrub the interior of the feeding tube and other small parts. Rinse thoroughly and let dry before refilling with fresh nectar. It is recommended to sterilize the feeder completely once every month to prevent mold growth. To prevent ants or bees from entering the feeder, you can coat the suction cups or hang a bee guard accessory over the feeding port.