Artificial hummingbird nests have become increasingly popular in recent years as a way to attract hummingbirds to gardens and outdoor spaces. But do these man-made nests actually work? Here we’ll examine the evidence on both sides of this debate.
What are artificial hummingbird nests?
Artificial hummingbird nests, sometimes called hummingbird feeders with perches, are small, cup-like devices that mimic natural hummingbird nests. They typically consist of a plastic or clay base with a soft, saucer-like indentation in the middle. This indentation is filled with a soft lining intended to resemble the inside of a real hummingbird’s nest. The goal is to attract hummingbirds to use these artificial nests as resting and nesting spots in yards and gardens.
Artificial nests are hung in trees or mounted on poles, placing them at an appropriate height for hummingbirds. They may contain artificial eggs or nestlings to make the nests seem more realistic. They often incorporate perches so hummingbirds can comfortably rest on the edge of the nest while feeding.
Using artificial nests may seem like an easy way to get more hummingbirds to visit your property without having to cultivate the specific flowers and habitats they prefer. But the big question is, do hummingbirds actually use them?
The case for artificial hummingbird nests
There is some evidence that hummingbirds may use artificial nests, at least on occasion:
- Hummingbirds have been observed resting inside artificial nests. In some instances, they may sit inside for 30 minutes or longer, suggesting they view the nests as safe spaces.
- Female hummingbirds have been documented gathering artificial nest materials like cotton or pet hair and incorporating them into an artificial nest to form a more complete nest.
- Baby hummingbirds have hatched in artificial nests filled with viable eggs, showing the nests can successfully serve that function.
- Some hummingbird species are known to reuse old nests or build “dummy nests” not used for breeding. In that sense, artificial nests may mimic natural structures.
- In some experiments, hummingbirds visited artificial nests modified with perches more frequently than unmodified, cup-like nests. This suggests they found the perches appealing.
Based on these observations, there seems to be some promise that artificial nests can work, at least for providing additional rest stops. But whether they can reliably attract nesting hummingbirds may depend on specific design factors.
The case against artificial hummingbird nests
However, there are also numerous reasons to be skeptical of artificial hummingbird nests:
- Most documented cases involve hummingbirds resting in artificial nests very briefly rather than nesting in them. Long-term use seems rare.
- Even examples of hummingbirds building up artificial nests with materials involved temporary stays of no more than 1-2 nights.
- In one study, hummingbirds rejected artificial nests placed too close to their natural nests, suggesting they did not view them as viable offspring housing.
- Hummingbirds that do use artificial nests may be young birds without nesting experience that make more haphazard choices.
- Artificial nests may not provide adequate protection from predators, rain, or other threats to eggs/offspring.
- The materials used in manufactured nests like plastic or fabric do not have the structural integrity to support nests long-term.
Researchers who have directly monitored hummingbird behavior around artificial nests overwhelmingly report limited engagement. Placing an artificial nest seems to do little to attract nesting pairs that weren’t already breeding in the area.
Key factors that may influence effectiveness
Research points to some key factors that can make an artificial hummingbird nest more or less effective:
- Nest placement – Hummingbirds ignore nests placed in open areas and strongly prefer those with dense, surrounding vegetation that offers concealment.
- Time of exposure – Hummingbirds may need weeks or months to grow accustomed to a new nest in an area before accepting it.
- Nest materials – Natural materials like moss, down feathers, and woven plant fibers may be more appealing than synthetic linings.
- Structural integrity – Nests may need reinforced bases and waterproof materials to handle rain and wind.
- Threats – Predators, pathogens, and competition from other birds can all render an area unsafe for nesting.
Modifying artificial nests to better mimic natural nests may improve their functionality. But there are still no guarantees hummingbirds will use them for breeding as opposed to brief resting.
Putting out multiple nests
Another common recommendation is putting out several artificial nests in the hope that sheer number will make hummingbirds more likely to use at least one. However, research findings on this approach are mixed:
- In one study with 20+ artificial nests, hummingbirds largely ignored them all and did not appear drawn by the surplus.
- However, other experiments have recorded more hummingbird activity around areas with high nest density, including group nesting.
- Too many nests clustered together can lead hummingbirds to defend large territories around the area, deterring others.
If using multiple artificial nests, spacing them well apart and varying height, architecture, and orientation may make each one seem like a distinct habitat. Portable nests can also be rotated around a property over time to create novelty.
Are artificial nests necessary?
Before installing artificial nests, it is also worth questioning whether they are truly necessary for attracting hummingbirds. Some other points to consider:
- Leaving up dead trees or branches for natural cavities may provide suitable nesting spots without any effort.
- Planting flowering species that hummingbirds rely on for food will better encourage nesting.
- Supplemental feeding with nectar feeders provides energy for nesting without nests.
- Hummingbirds may struggle due to pesticide use, tree removal, and other habitat losses on the breeding grounds, not lack of nest sites close to your home.
- Once hummingbird pairs select a nesting area, they tend to return year after year. An artificial nest likely cannot override this site fidelity.
If your goal is mostly to provide more resting areas for migrating hummingbirds, then limited engagement with artificial nests may still be beneficial. But promoting breeding likely depends more on habitat.
Examples of artificial hummingbird nest designs
For those who do wish to try artificial hummingbird nests, here are a few common designs:
Clay Saucer Nest
- Made from a 3-4 inch clay saucer or bowl
- Clay makes the nest sturdy but with some flexibility to contour to branches
- The saucer’s curved shape mimics a natural nest cup
- Can be left plain or painted to mimic materials like moss or bark
Cupped Hand Nest
- Uses a plastic or plaster cast molded into the shape of a cupped hand
- The “fingers” offer a lip for the nest contents to rest in
- Can be decorated with paints or natural materials
- Provides a convincing naturalistic shape
Hanging Basket Nest
- Starts with a small wire hanging basket, around 4-6 inches wide
- Cushioned with a layer of moss, cotton, feathers etc. across the bottom
- Optional: plastic bracing around the sides to help the basket hold its shape
- Can be hung from branches to simulate natural dangling nests
Nest Box
- Makes use of a basic wooden box, like a small birdhouse
- Entry hole is shaved wide so hummingbirds can fit inside
- Interior is cushioned with soft materials
- May have a perch outside the hole
- Provides more enclosed shelter
These demonstrate some of the common shapes and materials used. The options for customizing artificial nests are nearly endless. Note that mimicry of natural nests is important, so avoid decorative details that create too artificial an appearance.
Tips for successful artificial nests
If trying artificial hummingbird nests, the following tips may help increase success:
- Choose a high-traffic area where you already see hummingbirds feeding and perching.
- Position nests hidden deep within or next to dense cover.
- Use weather-resistant materials so nests hold up over time.
- Refill collapsed nests regularly to maintain an intact structure.
- Apply realistic paint patterns or coverings like lichen or moss.
- Introduce nest material scraps to encourage building.
- Be patient, as it may take weeks or a full season for nests to be accepted.
Even then, there is no guarantee hummingbirds will use the nests for breeding instead of shorter rests. But careful placement and design can at least make your artificial nests appealing.
Conclusion
In summary, research shows hummingbirds do sometimes interact with artificial nests, indicating they may use them as supplementary resting spots. However, there is little evidence they will use artificial structures for any substantial nesting or breeding behaviors. While certain design tweaks like strategic placement can encourage engagement, artificial nests alone will not override the habitat needs and breeding site preferences hummingbirds rely on. Limiting pesticide use, providing nectar plants, and preserving natural nesting areas will better facilitate productive hummingbird populations in the long term. So artificial nests can be an interesting experiment, but are no replacement for keeping your yard truly hummingbird friendly through flowers, feeders, and native vegetation.