Hummingbirds are some of the most fascinating birds to observe. Their rapid wing beats, their ability to hover and fly backwards, and their glittering, iridescent feathers make them a joy to watch. Many people love seeing hummingbirds visit their gardens, so they try to attract them by putting up bird feeders or planting flowers that hummingbirds like.
Another way to bring more hummingbirds close by is to build a specialized birdhouse just for them. While you don’t see hummingbird nests hanging off branches like the nests of many other birds, they do build tiny cup-shaped nests in trees, often on downward sloping limbs. You can replicate their preferred type of nesting spot by building a hummingbird birdhouse.
What Do Hummingbirds Need in a Birdhouse?
Hummingbirds have some specific requirements when it comes to nesting. Here are some factors to consider if you want to build a successful hummingbird birdhouse:
- A very small opening – Hummingbird entry holes should be no more than 1 1/4 inches across. This prevents larger birds from entering and disturbing the nest.
- A small interior floor – The inside floor space should measure about 3 inches across. Hummingbirds only need room for their tiny nests.
- Good drainage – Hummingbird nests can’t withstand getting soaked. Make sure water drains well out the bottom of the house.
- Ventilation – Hummingbird houses should have holes near the top for airflow. This keeps the nest from getting too hot in summer sun.
- Partial shade – Mount houses facing east or north to avoid intense afternoon sun. Provide some shade trees too.
- Sturdy mounting – Hummingbird houses must attach firmly and not blow around in the wind.
- Easy access – Houses should hang freely with no perches or obstructions around the entry hole.
- Special coating – Powder coat the house with a rough textured paint to give birds traction while they nest.
Choosing a Hummingbird House Design
Many hummingbird houses you can purchase have the right specifications already built in. But with a little carpentry skill, you can also build one yourself. Here are some common styles to consider:
Simple Hanging Box
This basic design is an open-bottomed box made of wood, metal, or even a natural gourd. It hangs from a hook or chain and has drainage holes in the floor. The entry hole goes through the front. Make sure to add texture and paint it an earthy color.
Decorative Hanging House
For a more decorative look, add some architectural details. Cut out an overhanging roof, create a perch across the front, or use pretty painted wood pieces. Just make sure not to obstruct the entry or perch where larger birds could sit.
Jar Lid House
A simple approach is to poke a small entry hole in the flat metal lid of a canning jar. Screw a small screw eye into the inside and fill with sand for drainage. Paint the outside and hang it up.
Grapevine Basket
Small pre-formed grapevine baskets make instant charming hummingbird nests. Use wire to secure the top closed except for a 1 1/4″ hole. Hang it up and let the vines provide natural camouflage.
Best Materials for Hummingbird Houses
Use weather-resistant materials that provide insulation from heat and cold:
| Material | Benefits |
|---|---|
| Cedar | Naturally rot-resistant wood, affordable |
| Redwood | Also naturally decay-resistant, but pricier |
| Pine | Use exterior grade and add water sealant |
| Plastic | Hold up to weather, provide insulation |
| Ceramic | Attractive, lasts many seasons |
| Metal | Durable but can heat up in sun |
Tips for Mounting a Hummingbird House
Proper placement of your hummingbird house will increase your success in attracting tenants. Follow these tips:
- Hang houses from sturdy tree branches, poles, or eaves of buildings. Use wire, chain, or heavy duty hooks.
- Place houses at least 5 feet off the ground to keep predators away.
- Face the entry hole towards areas of dense foliage or tree cover.
- Consider multiple houses spaced around your yard to reduce squabbles.
- Move feeders at least 10 feet away to avoid competition with nest sites.
- Mount houses with a slight downward tilt so rain drains out.
- Make adjustments each year as landscape plants grow and change.
- Take houses down in winter and store to prolong their life.
Final Tips for Attracting Hummingbirds
Building a proper hummingbird house is a great start, but consider these other elements too for best results:
- Get a head start by putting up your house in early spring before migrants arrive.
- Choose a site somewhat sheltered from prevailing winds.
- Supplement with nectar feeders and flowering plants they like.
- Provide dripping or running water for them to bathe and drink.
- Avoid using pesticides near nesting areas.
- Keep yards free of outdoor cats that can prey on hummingbirds.
- Limit disturbance around active nests until young have fledged.
Conclusion
With a little planning and effort, you can create ideal nesting habitat for hummingbirds in your own yard. The reward will be getting to observe a hummingbird pair up close as they nest and raise a family. Watching the tiny hummingbird chicks develop and finally take wing is a fascinating and unforgettable experience. Building a safe nesting place for hummingbirds to raise their young is very rewarding.
