Hummingbirds, with their iridescent feathers and remarkable aerial agility, are captivating birds. Their tiny size often belies the complexity of their lives, particularly their nesting behaviors. Understanding where and how these miniature marvels raise their young provides a glimpse into their intricate adaptations.
Common Nesting Locations
Hummingbirds typically choose nesting sites that offer both concealment and proximity to resources. They frequently build their nests in deciduous trees such as oak, sycamore, pine, birch, maple, and hackberry, and also within dense shrubs. Nests are usually affixed to slender, often downward-sloping branches, often near the outer edges of a tree. This strategic placement helps hide the nest under a canopy of leaves and branches.
The height of these nests varies, generally ranging from 5 to 40 feet above the ground, with some found as high as 90 feet. Many nests average 10 to 20 feet high. Nests are commonly situated near nectar-producing flowers, insects, and water sources, which are essential for feeding the mother and her developing young. While most hummingbirds prefer natural settings, some species, like the Ruby-throated Hummingbird, have occasionally adapted to urban environments, nesting on wires, clotheslines, or under eaves.
The Anatomy of a Hummingbird Nest
A hummingbird nest is a marvel of natural engineering, often described as about the size of a thimble. These tiny cup-shaped structures typically measure between 1 to 1.75 inches in diameter and 1 to 2 inches in height. The primary material used for construction is spider silk, which provides elasticity and binds the nest together, anchoring it to the branch.
The nest’s interior is softly lined with plant down, such as thistle or dandelion fluff, providing insulation and a comfortable space for the eggs and chicks. The exterior is adorned with bits of lichen or moss, which serve as camouflage, helping it blend seamlessly with the tree branch. This flexible design allows the nest to stretch and expand as the young hummingbirds grow.
Why Specific Sites Are Chosen
Hummingbirds select specific nesting sites for several important reasons, focusing on the safety and well-being of their offspring. Concealment is a primary factor, as the chosen location offers protection from predators such as birds of prey and snakes. Dense foliage and camouflaged nest materials make the nest difficult to spot.
Nests are also positioned to provide shelter from environmental elements. They are often protected from wind, rain, and direct sunlight by an overhead canopy of leaves or by being nestled within dense shrubs. The selected branch must be stable and strong enough to support the nest and growing chicks. Proximity to nectar sources and insects is also an important consideration, reducing the energy the female expends on foraging and ensuring a constant food supply for the young. Finally, hummingbirds prefer quiet, undisturbed areas to raise their brood.
The Hummingbird Nesting Cycle
The hummingbird nesting season typically spans from spring through late summer. In warmer southern areas, nesting can begin as early as March, while in cooler northern regions, it may start in July. The female hummingbird is solely responsible for building the nest, incubating the eggs, and raising the young.
A female hummingbird usually lays two tiny white, pea-sized eggs. The incubation period generally lasts between 12 to 23 days. After hatching, the chicks develop rapidly, typically fledging (leaving the nest) approximately 18 to 28 days later.