[tn-bird] solution for hummers subject of debate...


I make my sugar solution much stronger than the 4/1 ration that I see
recommended in hummer literature. My hummers thrive and I get a lot more
business than other birding friends, but some insist I am doing the little
birds harm with this rich mixture. I pour sugar into a plastic pitcher, not
quite up to one third of the pitcher, and fill with hot water. Does anyone
have any scientific data on how strong true nectar is, or if it is harmful
to make a solution this strong?

I also have given up on putting feeders around in hidden places to provide
access for those birds who seem to be getting the worst of the battles over
air space. They ignore those feeders (not entirely, but mostly) and prefer
to engage in the competition and excitement. I keep several feeders along
the porch edge, just a few feet apart, and all birds seem able to slip in a
get a drink while swirling battles keep aggressive birds distracted.

Carol Reese
Ornamental Horticulture Specialist -Western District
University of Tennessee Extension Service
605 Airways Blvd.
Jackson TN 38301
901 425 4721 email  jcreese@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

=================NOTES TO SUBSCRIBER=====================

The TN-Bird Net requires you to sign your messages with
first and last name, city (town) and state abbreviation.
-----------------------------------------------------
To post to this mailing list, simply send email to:
tn-bird@xxxxxxxxxxxxxx
----------------------------------------------------- 
To unsubscribe, send email to:
tn-bird-request@xxxxxxxxxxxxx 
with 'unsubscribe' in the Subject field.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
Topographical Maps located at http://topozone.com/find.asp
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
     Visit the Tennessee Ornithological Society
          web site at http://www.tnbirds.org
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
    TN-Bird Net Owner: Wallace Coffey, Bristol, TN
        jwcoffey@xxxxxxxxxx      (423) 764-3958
=========================================================

Other related posts: