Do hummingbirds ever use birdhouses?

Hummingbirds are one of the most beloved backyard birds. These tiny, colorful creatures zip around gardens and feeders, captivating us with their beauty and energetic movements. A common question many people have is whether hummingbirds will use birdhouses. After all, providing nesting sites can help attract and support these special birds.

The quick answer is that hummingbirds do not use traditional birdhouses with enclosed cavities like many songbirds. However, they do construct open-cup nests and will sometimes nest on certain manmade structures. So while you won’t see hummingbirds going in and out of typical birdhouses, they can occasionally use other artificial nesting platforms and sites.

Why Hummingbirds Don’t Use Birdhouses

There are a few key reasons why hummingbirds do not use regular birdhouses:

Small Size

Hummingbirds are incredibly tiny, weighing only 2-20 grams on average depending on the species. Even the largest hummingbird species are quite small. Most birdhouse entrance holes are sized for chickadees, nuthatches, titmice, and other common cavity nesters. At 1-1 1/4 inches, the openings are too large for tiny hummingbirds to feel safe using. The internal cavity of most standard birdhouses would also have too much empty space for such a small bird.

Nest Preferences

Hummingbirds construct small, compact cup-shaped nests out of plant down, spider webs, lichens, and other soft materials. The nests are only about 2 inches wide and 1 inch tall. Built on top of branches or other structures, they have open tops rather than enclosed cavities like birdhouses. Hummingbirds prefer open accessibility when landing on and taking off from their delicate nests. A typical birdhouse does not accommodate their specialized nesting needs.

Behavior

Hummingbirds are highly territorial and solitary nesters. They do not nest colonially like many cavity nesting species that readily share birdhouses. Aggressive males will actively defend their chosen nesting area and chase away other males or even females. Without a way to restrict access, common birdhouses are impractical for solitary hummingbirds to use.

Do Hummingbirds Use Any Artificial Nest Sites?

While standard birdhouses don’t appeal to hummingbirds, they occasionally will nest on certain manmade structures that better suit their small size and natural preferences:

Utility Hooks, Brackets, and Clamps

Hummingbirds have been known to build their dainty cup nests on hooks for utility lights or wires, brackets, conduits, and other hardware attached to buildings. Any small protruding structure can potentially serve as a nest site. This includes irrigation clamps, electrical insulators, and metal straps or braces. The key is that the structure must be stable, relatively flat on top, and offer some protection from below while still being out in the open.

Open Shelves and Platforms

Small open shelves, trays, porches, or platforms can also mimic suitable nest sites for hummingbirds, provided they are not too cluttered. Ideas include:

– Wood or wire shelves under eaves or overhangs
– Plant hanger brackets and pots without plants
– Small wooden baskets or trays on exterior walls
– Rafters in porches or pergolas
– Ornamental shelves and decorative ledges

The key is to offer a flat, stable surface that is sheltered from above but open for easy access. Avoid cluttering the space and make sure any essential items like hanging plants are a foot or two away from potential nest sites.

Artificial Nests and Nest Cams

For observation and research purposes, some people use specially designed artificial hummingbird nests with integrated cameras. These mini nests imitation natural nests and can be strategically placed in optimal habitat to attract nesting females. The nest cams provide valuable data and insight into hummingbird behavior without disturbing the birds. This is an advanced approach best done carefully under guidance.

Other Ways to Attract Hummingbirds

While birdhouses are not used by hummingbirds, there are plenty of other tactics to draw these special birds to your yard:

Feeders

Offering nectar in specialized hummingbird feeders is by far the best strategy to attract hummingbirds. Choose feeders with red accents, perches, ant moats, and other features to accommodate hummingbird preferences and needs. Maintain fresh nectar and clean feeders regularly. Place feeders near gardens, trees, and other natural sources of nectar. Avoid clustering too many feeders together or having them too close to nest sites.

Flowers

Planting native flowers and other hummingbird favorites provides natural nectar sources. Prioritize tubular flowers in red, orange, and pink hues. Place flower beds around your yard to create a habitat full of food options. Also provide plants like salvia and honeysuckle that hummingbirds use for nesting materials. Avoid pesticides that could harm the birds.

Water

Hummingbirds bathe and drink water in addition to nectar. Use a mister attachment on a garden hose or set up a small water feature with a dripper or fountain to provide water sources. Change water daily to prevent mosquitoes from breeding.

Shelter and Perches

Incorporate small trees, shrubs, and vines around your property to offer shelter, perches, and nest sites. Hummingbirds rest in protected areas and often scout for food from low branches. Natural vegetation supports all their habitat needs. Prioritize native plantings when possible.

Conclusion

While hummingbirds do not use typical birdhouses, they will occasionally nest on specialty artificial structures that accommodate their small size and natural behaviors. The best way to attract hummingbirds is by providing nectar feeders, flowering plants, water sources, perches, and overall habitat. With a little effort, you can design your yard to provide everything hummingbirds need without birdhouses. The reward will be getting to enjoy watching these special birds up close as they buzz around your outdoor space!