The Best Food for Hummingbirds (And What to Avoid!)

April 15, 2026

If you’ve ever spotted a hummingbird hovering in your backyard, you know how magical these tiny birds are. Their rapid wingbeats and shimmering colors make them a favorite among bird lovers across North America.

But one common question many people ask is: what do hummingbirds eat—and how can you attract them to your yard?

In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know, from their natural diet to the best ways to safely feed them at home.

What Do Hummingbirds Eat?

Hummingbirds have extremely fast metabolisms, which means they need to eat frequently throughout the day. Their diet is surprisingly diverse and includes both sugary and protein-rich foods.

Nectar (Their Primary Food Source)

The main source of energy for hummingbirds is flower nectar. Nectar is rich in natural sugars, giving them the fuel they need to hover and fly.

They are especially attracted to:

Brightly colored flowers (especially red, orange, and pink)
Tubular-shaped blooms
Native plants with high nectar production

Small Insects & Spiders

While nectar provides energy, hummingbirds also need protein and nutrients—and that’s where insects come in.

They commonly eat:

Fruit flies
Gnats
Aphids
Small spiders

This part of their diet is especially important during breeding season.

Tree Sap (Occasionally)

Hummingbirds sometimes feed on tree sap, especially from holes made by woodpeckers. Sap provides an additional sugar source when flowers are scarce.

The Best Homemade Hummingbird Nectar Recipe

One of the easiest ways to attract hummingbirds is by offering a feeder with homemade nectar.

Simple Recipe:

1 part white granulated sugar
4 parts water

Instructions:

Boil the water
Stir in the sugar until fully dissolved
Let it cool before filling your feeder

🚫 Important:

Do NOT use honey (can grow harmful mold)
Do NOT use artificial sweeteners
Do NOT add red food coloring

What NOT to Feed Hummingbirds

Feeding hummingbirds incorrectly can harm their health. Avoid these common mistakes:

❌ Honey
❌ Brown sugar or raw sugar
❌ Artificial sweeteners
❌ Red dye or food coloring

Stick to the simple sugar-water recipe to keep them safe and healthy.

How to Attract Hummingbirds to Your Yard

If you want to see more hummingbirds visiting your space, here are some proven tips:

Use a Hummingbird Feeder

A well-designed feeder makes it easy for hummingbirds to access nectar and for you to maintain cleanliness.

👉 Choose one that is:

Easy to clean

Leak-proof

Brightly colored (red accents help attract them)Click on the image to purchase the same bird feeder shown.

Plant Native Flowers

Adding nectar-rich plants is one of the best long-term strategies.

Popular options in North America include:

Bee balm
Salvia
Columbine
Trumpet vine

These plants naturally attract hummingbirds and support local ecosystems.

Keep Feeders Clean

Dirty feeders can grow mold and bacteria.

Clean feeders every 2–3 days in hot weather
Use warm water and a bottle brush
Avoid soap residue

Provide Shade & Safe Placement

Place feeders:

In partial shade (to slow nectar spoilage)
Near flowers or shrubs
Away from strong winds

How Often Should You Change Hummingbird Food?

• Hot weather (above 80°F / 27°C): every 2–3 days

• Mild weather: every 3–5 days

Fresh nectar is essential to keep hummingbirds coming back.

Why Aren’t Hummingbirds Coming to My Feeder?

If you’re not seeing visitors, here are a few possible reasons:

• The feeder is new (they haven’t discovered it yet)

• Not enough bright colors nearby

• Poor placement

• Dirty or spoiled nectar

• Seasonal migration patterns

Be patient—it can take time for hummingbirds to find your feeder.

Do Hummingbirds Drink Water?

Hummingbirds don’t drink water the same way other birds do. Instead, they get hydration from nectar and occasionally from mist, rain, or water droplets on leaves.

Adding a mister or fountain can make your yard even more attractive to them.

Final Thoughts

Hummingbirds are fascinating creatures that rely on a mix of nectar and insects to survive. By understanding what hummingbirds eat and providing the right food sources, you can turn your backyard into a hummingbird haven.

Whether it’s planting native flowers or setting up a clean, reliable feeder, even small changes can make a big difference.