Do Hummingbirds Use Bird Houses? A Look At Hummingbird Nesting
With their glittering, jewel-toned plumage and energetic personalities, hummingbirds are some of the most beloved backyard birds. If you want to attract more of these tiny dynamos to your yard, you may wonder: do hummingbirds use bird houses?
If you’re short on time, here’s a quick answer to your question: Hummingbirds do not use birdhouses for nesting or roosting. They build tiny cup-shaped nests out of plant fibers, spiderwebs, and down.
In this in-depth article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about hummingbird nesting habits and requirements. You’ll learn exactly where and how hummingbirds build nests, what materials they use, and how to support nesting in your yard.
We’ll also cover whether hummer nest boxes or birdhouses could entice them, and explain why cavities don’t suit their needs.
Hummingbirds Build Exposed Nests on Branches
When it comes to nesting, hummingbirds have a unique approach. Unlike many other bird species, hummingbirds do not use bird houses for nesting. Instead, they build their tiny cup-shaped nests on branches, typically high up in trees or shrubs.
These nests are meticulously constructed by the female hummingbird using a variety of materials.
Tiny Cup Shaped Nests
Hummingbird nests are truly remarkable considering their size. These tiny cup-shaped structures are typically no more than a few inches in diameter. The female hummingbird uses materials such as plant fibers, moss, spider webs, and even feathers to create a sturdy and comfortable nest for her eggs.
Despite their small size, these nests are designed to provide protection and insulation for the developing chicks.
Camouflage and Durability
Hummingbird nests are not only functional but also well-camouflaged. The outer layer of the nest is often made from lichen or other materials that blend seamlessly with the surrounding branches. This helps to keep the nest hidden from predators and provides an added layer of protection for the eggs and chicks.
Despite their delicate appearance, hummingbird nests are surprisingly durable and can withstand various weather conditions.
Nest Site Preferences
Hummingbirds are quite particular when it comes to choosing a nesting site. They prefer locations that provide shelter, such as dense foliage or overhanging branches. These sites offer protection from predators and the elements.
Additionally, hummingbirds tend to choose locations that receive ample sunlight, as this helps to keep the eggs warm and aids in the growth of the chicks. It is fascinating to observe these tiny birds carefully selecting the perfect spot to build their nests.
For more information on hummingbird nesting behavior, you can visit reputable websites like the Audubon Society or the Hummingbird Society.
Hummingbird Nest Materials and Construction
When it comes to building their nests, hummingbirds are remarkably resourceful creatures. They use a variety of materials to construct their tiny abodes, ensuring they are sturdy and well-insulated. Let’s take a closer look at the materials and construction techniques employed by these remarkable birds.
Plant Down and Spider Silk
Hummingbirds use a combination of soft plant down and spider silk to create the base of their nests. The soft plant down provides a comfortable and warm lining for the nest, while the spider silk adds strength and flexibility.
This unique combination allows the nest to expand as the chicks grow, accommodating their increasing size.
Spider silk is an incredibly strong material, pound for pound stronger than steel. Hummingbirds carefully collect spider silk and use it to anchor their nests to branches, providing stability and security.
The use of spider silk in nest construction is a testament to the ingenuity of these small birds.
Decorations for Camouflage
Hummingbirds are not only skilled builders, but they also have a flair for design. To camouflage their nests and protect them from predators, hummingbirds adorn the outer layers with lichens, mosses, and other natural materials.
These decorations help the nests blend seamlessly into their surroundings, making them difficult to spot.
The addition of these decorative elements not only serves a practical purpose but also adds an aesthetic touch to the hummingbird’s nest. It’s as if these tiny birds understand the importance of creating a cozy and visually appealing home for their offspring.
The Nest Building Process
Building a hummingbird nest is a labor-intensive process that requires meticulous attention to detail. The female hummingbird takes on the responsibility of constructing the nest, using her beak to weave together the various materials.
The construction process can take anywhere from 5 to 10 days, depending on the complexity of the nest.
Once the nest is complete, the female hummingbird will lay her eggs, typically two, inside the nest. She will then diligently incubate the eggs, ensuring they stay warm and protected until they hatch. The entire nesting process, from construction to incubation, showcases the remarkable dedication and nurturing instincts of these tiny birds.
Why Cavity Nests Don’t Suit Hummingbirds
While birdhouses are a popular choice for attracting various bird species to our gardens, they may not be suitable for hummingbirds. Here are a few reasons why hummingbirds do not typically use cavity nests:
Small Size and Claustrophobia
Hummingbirds are known for their small size, with the smallest species weighing less than a penny. This size makes it challenging for them to fit inside the small entrance holes typically found in birdhouses.
Additionally, hummingbirds are highly active birds that require ample space to hover and fly. The confined space of a cavity nest may make them feel claustrophobic and limit their ability to move freely.
So, while other bird species may find comfort in the cozy confines of a birdhouse, hummingbirds prefer more open and spacious nesting options.
Need for Good Visibility
Hummingbirds have excellent eyesight and rely on their keen vision to find food sources, detect predators, and spot potential mates. They prefer nesting locations that provide them with a clear line of sight, allowing them to keep a watchful eye on their surroundings.
Birdhouses, with their enclosed design, limit the visibility of hummingbirds and may hinder their ability to monitor their environment effectively. Instead, hummingbirds typically choose to build their nests in trees, shrubs, or other elevated locations that offer them a panoramic view.
Lack of Cavity Nesting Instincts
Unlike many other bird species, hummingbirds do not have a natural instinct to nest in cavities. Their preferred nesting method involves constructing small, cup-shaped nests using materials such as moss, spider silk, and plant fibers.
These nests are typically anchored to branches or other sturdy structures. While some hummingbird species may occasionally use existing cavities or abandoned nests, they do not actively seek out birdhouses as suitable nesting sites.
It’s important to note that while hummingbirds may not use birdhouses, there are other ways you can attract these delightful birds to your garden. Planting nectar-rich flowers, providing a reliable water source, and hanging hummingbird feeders are all effective methods for inviting these tiny avian wonders into your yard.
So, even though they may not be interested in birdhouses, there are still plenty of opportunities to enjoy the presence of hummingbirds in your outdoor space.
Special Features of Hummingbird Nest Boxes
Hummingbird nest boxes are specially designed birdhouses that cater to the unique nesting habits of these small and vibrant birds. Here are some of the special features that make these nest boxes perfect for hummingbirds:
Open Fronts or Perches
Unlike traditional birdhouses with enclosed entrances, hummingbird nest boxes have open fronts or perches. This design allows hummingbirds to easily access and enter the nest box, as they are accustomed to building their nests in open areas such as tree branches or shrubs.
The absence of a closed entrance also provides better ventilation, ensuring a comfortable environment for the nesting hummingbirds.
Very Small Dimensions
Hummingbirds are known for their small size, and their nest boxes reflect this characteristic. These boxes are typically compact and have small dimensions, providing a cozy space for the birds to build their nests.
The small size also helps to protect the hummingbird eggs and chicks from predators, as the entrances are too tiny for larger birds or animals to enter.
Ideal Placement and Setup
Proper placement and setup of hummingbird nest boxes are crucial for attracting these fascinating birds. It is recommended to hang the nest boxes in shaded areas, as direct sunlight can overheat the nesting area.
Additionally, the boxes should be placed at a height that is convenient for observation and maintenance, usually around 5-6 feet above the ground.
Hummingbirds are attracted to areas with a good source of nectar, so it is beneficial to place the nest boxes near flowering plants or hummingbird feeders. This will provide the birds with easy access to food while they are nesting, ensuring their well-being.
Providing Natural Nest Sites for Hummingbirds
Hummingbirds are known for their agility and speed, but they also require suitable nesting sites to raise their young. While they typically build their nests in natural locations such as trees and shrubs, providing additional nesting options can be beneficial for these tiny birds.
Here are some ways to create natural nest sites for hummingbirds:
Native Plants for Nest Materials
Hummingbirds use a variety of materials to construct their nests, including twigs, moss, and spider silk. By planting native plants in your yard, you can provide a natural source of nesting materials. Native plants are not only important for providing food sources for hummingbirds but also for attracting insects that the birds rely on for protein.
Some native plants that can serve as excellent sources of nest materials include red columbine, bee balm, and cardinal flower.
Trees and Shrubs with Good Branch Forks
When it comes to selecting nesting sites, hummingbirds prefer trees and shrubs with sturdy branches that have forks or V-shaped crotches. These branch forks provide a secure foundation for hummingbird nests, protecting them from strong winds and predators.
Trees like oaks, maples, and willows, as well as shrubs like dogwoods and viburnums, are known to have branches with suitable forked structures.
Water Features as Insect Magnets
Hummingbirds rely heavily on insects for their diet, especially when feeding their nestlings. By incorporating water features such as bird baths or small ponds into your yard, you can attract insects that serve as a vital food source for hummingbirds.
Mosquito larvae, for example, are a favorite food of hummingbirds. Be sure to keep the water clean and free of chemicals to ensure the health and safety of these tiny birds.
Conclusion
While you won’t attract hummingbirds by putting up ordinary birdhouses, you can make your yard more hummingbird-friendly with native flowers, nesting shrubs, and a few other enhancements. Understanding the unique nesting habits of hummingbirds allows you to support these special birds without disrupting their instincts and preferences.
Watching the nesting rituals of hummingbirds is a special spring and summer treat. As you observe female hummingbirds gathering down and weaving elaborate tiny nests, you gain an even greater appreciation for these captivating creatures.
