Hummingbirds are amazing little creatures that bring joy to backyard bird watchers across North America. Their speedy flight and hovering abilities make them a delight to observe. And their appetite for nectar keeps feeders busy refilling them! But beyond their visits to feeders, hummingbirds have some interesting nesting behaviors that are worth learning about.
Do hummingbirds nest near feeders?
The short answer is yes, hummingbirds often do build their tiny nests near feeders. There are a couple reasons for this:
- Convenience – Hummingbirds expend a huge amount of energy zooming from flower to flower in search of nectar. Having a feeder nearby provides a reliable food source without wasting precious energy. So they often nest close to take advantage of the “free food”.
- Safety – Nesting near a frequented feeder means there will often be people around. This deters potential predators like cats, snakes, and jays from getting too close to the nest.
So you may just find a hummingbird nest in a tree branch or shrub right outside your window where you regularly see them feeding. But it’s not a guarantee, as hummingbirds may choose to nest farther away as well.
Ideal nesting conditions
Hummingbirds typically look for certain features when choosing a nesting site:
- Concealment – They prefer well-hidden sites surrounded by leaves and branches to help camouflage the nest from predators.
- Proximity to food – As mentioned above, having a food source like a feeder nearby is appealing.
- Shelter – Mature trees or covered porches provide shelter from the elements.
- Strong support – Nests are often built on thin branches that sway in the wind, so a sturdy base is key.
If your yard happens to meet these criteria close to your feeder, you’re more likely to have hummingbirds nest there. But sometimes they will scope out a more ideal spot across the street or further into your neighborhood as well.
Signs a nest is nearby
Wondering if those hummingbirds at your feeder may be nesting in the area too? Here are some clues to look for:
- Territorial behavior – Male hummingbirds will become highly territorial and aggressive around their nests, diving at intruders.
- Gathering materials – Watch for hummingbirds collecting bits of moss, lichen, down feathers, or spider silk to construct a nest.
- Frequent visits – Hummingbirds will make regular trips to and from the feeder and nest as they incubate eggs and feed hatchlings.
- Nest sightings – Obviously spotting an actual nest is a clear sign, though they can be challenging to spot!
If you observe some of these behaviors, there’s likely a nest not too far away. Just use caution and avoid disturbing the area so the parents can safely raise their chicks.
When do hummingbirds nest?
Hummingbirds can breed and nest multiple times during the seasons they spend in North America. Here’s an overview of when nesting behavior typically occurs:
- Spring – Early nesting may begin in late winter or early spring for species like Anna’s and rufous hummingbirds. This first round is important to take advantage of spring blooms.
- Summer – Most nesting activity peaks in summer months when food is plentiful. Females may have 2-3 broods during this time.
- Fall – Some late nests happen in early fall before migration for species like rufous hummingbirds.
So hummingbird nests can be found from around February through September depending on your location and species. The busiest times are usually May through July when warm weather fuels insect populations that hummingbirds rely on for food.
Interesting hummingbird nest facts
Here are some fascinating tidbits about the nests these tiny birds build:
- They are tiny – Only around 2 inches wide and 1 inch tall inside, just big enough for eggs/chicks.
- Made of unusual materials – Such as spider silk, moss, feathers, bark, and lichen bound with saliva.
- Camouflaged – The outside is decorated with lichen or moss to disguise it.
- Well-anchored – The nest is lashed firmly to branches with spider silk and woven plant fibers.
- Self-repairing – Hummingbirds may add materials during incubation to expand the nest as chicks grow.
It’s amazing that something so small and intricate can withstand wind, rain, and the movements of excited chicks. Hummingbird nest architecture is truly impressive!
Dangers of nesting near feeders
While having hummingbirds nest close to your feeder is exciting, there are some risks to be aware of:
- Window collisions – Hummingbirds can get disoriented by reflective windows and collide with them, causing injury or death.
- Cats – Outdoor cats may stalk nests and attack vulnerable chicks and adults.
- Fledging mishaps – Young hummingbirds learning to fly can inadvertently become trapped indoors.
- Predators – Jays, squirrels, snakes and other predators may be attracted by feeders and discover nearby nests.
Here are some tips to help nesting hummingbirds stay safe:
- Apply decals to windows to prevent collisions.
- Keep cats indoors or supervise outdoor time.
- Trim nearby branches to discourage squirrels.
- Avoid use of pesticides and herbicides.
Fascinating nesting behavior
Beyond the nest itself, hummingbirds exhibit some very interesting behaviors around nesting:
- Solitary nesting – Hummingbird nests are solitary. Unlike many birds, they do not nest in colonies.
- Males don’t assist – Male hummingbirds do not participate in nest building, incubating eggs, or feeding young.
- Aggressive defense – Males are very protective and will zealously chase away any intruders.
- Frequent feeding – Hummingbird chicks are fed up to 1,000 times per day as they grow!
- Early departure – Chicks leave the nest around 18-28 days after hatching, the fastest development of any bird species.
Observing these behaviors is a fascinating look into hummingbird family dynamics. The mothers certainly have a tough job raising chicks alone and defending the nest!
Tips for supporting nesting hummingbirds
Here are some tips to support hummingbirds that choose to nest near your feeder:
- Keep feeders freshly stocked with nectar as birds have high energy needs while nesting.
- Add flowering plants that attract insects to provide protein for chicks.
- Set up a mister for birds to bathe and collect nest materials.
- Avoid pruning around known nests to prevent disturbing them.
- Hold off refilling the feeder until chicks fledge to encourage independence.
- Remove feeders in winter so hummingbirds migrate rather than getting dependent.
With a few small adjustments, you can help create an ideal nesting habitat right in your own yard!
Can you move a hummingbird nest?
It’s generally best not to move or disturb a hummingbird nest once it contains eggs or chicks. However, there are a few instances where relocation may be necessary:
- If the nest is directly in the path of necessary maintenance like painting or roof repair.
- If there is imminent danger from a predator that has discovered the nest.
- If tree trimming or removal cannot be delayed until after nesting.
If a hummingbird nest must be moved, here are some important tips:
- Handle the nest minimally and relocate as soon as eggs are laid before incubation begins.
- Move the nest less than 10 feet away to a similar location and branch type if possible.
- Attach the nest securely with its original materials like spider webs and plant fibers.
- Monitor to make sure the parent returns and resumes normal behavior.
Relocating a nest with eggs or young should be avoided except as an absolute last resort. And a permit may be required, so always contact wildlife authorities first if nest moving is being considered.
Can you touch a hummingbird nest?
It’s best practice not to touch a hummingbird’s nest at all unless absolutely necessary. Here’s why you should avoid handling their nests:
- It can stress nesting adults – Hummingbirds are easily startled and may abandon nests.
- Oils and scent can attract predators – Even carefully touching a nest leaves traces.
- Disturbing materials may damage integrity – The tightly woven nest materials keep the structure sound.
- Chicks may jump and leave the nest prematurely – Young chicks are sensitive to disturbances.
If a hummingbird nest must be handled for emergency relocation, follow these precautions:
- Wash hands and wear gloves so no scent is transferred.
- Touch only the outer rim, not sides or interior of nest.
- Work quickly and monitor birds returning post-relocation.
- Get licensed help for access if nest is very high up.
Whenever possible, maintain at least 5 feet distance from hummingbird nests and observe their wonder from afar without interfering!
Conclusion
Seeing hummingbirds regularly at your feeders doesn’t necessarily guarantee they are nesting up close. But their need for reliable food and reduced energy expenditure certainly motivate many to build their tiny nurseries within sight of our homes. With careful observation for signs like territorial behavior, nest materials, and frequent trips, you may discover the joy of having these aerial acrobats nesting practically right outside your window! Just be sure to take appropriate precautions and avoid disturbing nests to give baby hummingbirds the best chance at successfully fledging.
