Hummingbirds captivate observers with their iridescent plumage and astonishing aerial agility. These diminutive birds construct some of nature’s most intricate nests, often no larger than a thimble or a walnut shell, meticulously woven from spider silk and plant down. Their tiny abodes are frequently camouflaged with lichen and moss, blending into their surroundings. The delicate nature of these nests and the minuscule size of their inhabitants hint at a complex and rapid developmental journey.
The Nesting Duration
Baby hummingbirds remain in their nest for approximately three weeks after hatching, though this period can vary slightly (e.g., 18 to 28 days) depending on species, local climate, and food availability. The total duration from egg-laying to the young birds leaving the nest typically spans about five to six weeks. Cold weather might prolong the incubation period, subsequently affecting the time nestlings spend in the nest.
Growth and Milestones in the Nest
Hummingbird chicks, known as altricial birds, hatch blind and mostly featherless, weighing less than a dime. Their skin is pink or gray, and their initial beaks are short, unlike the elongated bills of adult hummingbirds. For the first one to two weeks, the mother hummingbird consistently broods them, providing warmth as they cannot regulate their own body temperature. Around 9 to 10 days after hatching, their eyes open, and pin-like feathers emerge, transforming into a full coat by about three weeks old.
The mother feeds her young by regurgitating a mixture of nectar and protein-rich insects and spiders, which support their rapid growth and bone development. This feeding process occurs frequently, sometimes every 20 minutes. As they approach fledging, typically around two weeks of age, the nestlings begin to exercise their wings within the nest, preparing for their first flight. This practice strengthens their flight muscles before they venture out.
From Fledging to Independence
Fledging marks the time when young hummingbirds leave the nest, a process that is often gradual rather than sudden. While they are capable of flight upon leaving the nest, their initial attempts may appear awkward. Once fledged, the young birds do not return to the nest. The mother continues to provide care and guidance for about one to two weeks after they leave, feeding them and teaching them how to forage for nectar and insects independently.
During this post-fledging period, the young hummingbirds learn to navigate their environment and hone their feeding skills. They learn to identify suitable food sources. After this short period of continued maternal care, typically within a month of hatching, the young hummingbirds become fully independent.