Sugar, water, and possibly some food coloring may not sound like a magic potion, but when it comes to hummingbirds, it sure is.

Generally, hummingbirds begin to arrive once wildflowers are in bloom. And for the backyard birdwatcher, these frantic flyers offer some exciting action.

One of the big attractions for these little birds is the color red. Red flowers generally draw them in first. This includes shades of red which runs the spectrum from pink to orange, although the most brilliant shades are sought out over others. The attraction is like a magnet drawn to steel.

At our home, the seed and suet feeders have been taken down, cleaned and stored. Now it’s time to begin attracting hummingbirds. And by following a simple process, it’s not that difficult to do.

First, we like to place some flowers in the general vicinity of our feeders. Gladiolus, begonias, scarlet morning glory, and petunias seem to attract the attention of the “hummers”.

With a hummingbird feeder placed near the flowers, the birds will find the artificial nectar and become a regular visitor.

The question regarding nectar that should be used comes up in conversation. The components include: water, sugar, and red food coloring.

In the case of the water, that which is drawn from the tap can work, however distilled water is recommended. The reason is that tap water in many municipal water sources has been chlorinated. Tap water can be used after allowing it to stand for a day or two before use.

Do not use honey in place of sugar. Over time honey will ferment and can make the birds ill from drinking it.

The nectar is made by mixing one part sugar to four parts water. Heat the mixture until it begins to boil. Then allow the liquid to stand, allowing it to cool. Finally, and this is optional, add a drop or two of red food coloring.

To avoid mixing an excessive amount of nectar, simply determine the volume of water required to fill your feeder(s). Then use that amount of water to determine the amount of sugar needed to complete the mix. Unused nectar can be stored in the refrigerator.

According to the experts, there are different theories about the use of red food coloring.

The conversation began in the mid-1970s when Red Dye No. 2 circulated and caused possible harmful effects. That particular dye is no longer available. Most have gotten away from adding color to homemade nectar and that which is commercially available as well. Besides, what is really important is the strength of the sugar solution and the cleanliness of the feeder.

Feeder maintenance is important. If there are floating insects in the nectar or if the liquid appears to be cloudy or mold is present, it should be discarded. And the feeder should be disassembled and cleaned.

Tools needed for the job include a small brush to clean the feeding ports. A pipe cleaner can be helpful as well. A bottle brush should be used to clean the reservoir. Fancy chemicals are not needed, and dish soap will work just fine. And no bleach.

Clean all the feeding ports — this step is important since mold and fungus should be cleaned within the assembly.

Be sure to drain the base and give it a thorough cleaning.

When all parts have been attended to, rinse all the parts with clean water to remove any residue from the dish soap. Wipe each piece of the feeder and allow them to dry thoroughly. Then the feeder can be re-assembled and refilled and ready to use. A good rule of thumb is to clean hummingbird feeders on a weekly basis.

A way to keep the insects out of your feeder is to use an insect guard. The device is installed on the cord leading from the feeder to the bottom of the device. The guard resembles an upside down cup with a connecting rod extending upward from the inside of the cup. The rod has an eyelet on its end allowing the device to be connected to a hook that will suspend the entire unit. The cup is filled with water and forms a water barrier that effectively keeps insects such as ants from gaining access to the feeder and its sweet nectar.

Hummingbird feeders work, but “hummers” don’t survive on human handouts alone. So what else do they eat?

Hummingbirds eat ants, small beetles, tiny flies, wasps, and spiders. All of which are rich in protein.

Hummingbirds take their name from the noise created by their fast moving wings. Wingbeats cycle between 40 & 80 beats per second.

Males will stake out their feeding area, bluff, or harpoon other males entering their domain. Females are permitted to trespass at will.

The ruby-throated hummingbird is the only hummingbird found east of the Mississippi River. Only adult males have a bright red throat, and the males and female’s feathers offer a brilliant and unmistakable iridescent look.

So if you’re looking for some exciting backyard bird watching action, establish a hummingbird feeder and watch ’em fly.

(Charlie Burchfield can be reached at GWOutdoors@comcast.net).