thanks Hal! g (no, the hummers didn't tell me anything. I watched them
snapping up teeny little fliers and supping all spring and summer on my
flowers. I never put any nectar or sugarwater out for them this year. they
gleaned every drop they could from everything around my gardens, and before
I could make up any supplimental sugar water for them, they were gone. and
this year was the first year I've had so many! I based this on previous
year's when I'd only increase the sugar in October just before they left for
the South American regions for winter. ) thanks for clearing this up
madgardener
"Hal" wrote in message
news

I'm not Travis, but I'm curious, is there research to prompt such an
opinion? Don't tell me a little birdie told you so.

http://www.hummingbirds.net/feeders.html

Here's the recipe for artificial nectar (syrup):
Use one part ordinary white cane sugar to four parts water.

It's not necessary to boil the water. The microorganisms that cause
fermentation don't come from the water; they are transported to the
feeder on hummingbird bills.

Store unused syrup in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

This mixture approximates the average sucrose content (about 21%) of
the flowers favored by North American hummingbirds, without being so
sweet it attracts too many insects.

Regards,

Hal