Hummingbirds are amazingly tiny birds that have captured the fascination of humans for centuries. Their glittering colors, lightning-fast movements, and ability to hover in midair make them a delight to watch. Many people enjoy having hummingbirds visit their gardens or feeders, as these colorful creatures provide hours of entertainment. But just how close will hummingbirds actually get to humans?
Do hummingbirds feel comfortable around humans?
Many hummingbirds quickly get accustomed to human presence, especially if the humans are providing a reliable source of nectar. With some patience and regular visits to a nectar feeder, it’s possible to teach hummingbirds not to see humans as a threat. Once they feel safe, hummingbirds may buzz within inches of your face to access the feeder. Some especially bold individuals may even briefly perch on a finger or hat if you remain very still!
However, it’s important not to make any sudden movements when hummingbirds are close by. Startled hummingbirds could injure themselves by crashing into a window or object in their haste to escape. It’s best to let the hummingbirds choose to approach you and maintain a comfortable distance if they appear cautious.
How close do hummingbirds get to feeders?
Hummingbirds need to get extremely close to access nectar from flowers or feeders. Their long slender beaks allow them to insert themselves right into flower corollas or feeder ports. When feeding, they will regularly get within inches of the nectar source.
However, hummingbirds don’t actually like being too close to each other. Dominant males will aggressively chase other hummingbirds away from prime feeding spots. Females may tolerate a little more closeness, except when nesting or feeding chicks.
To reduce squabbling, it’s best to hang multiple feeders 10 feet or more apart. This allows plenty of personal space for hummingbirds to feed without feeling crowded. Having multiple feeding stations also reduces the risk of one dominant bird monopolizing the food source.
How close do hummingbirds nest to humans?
Hummingbirds typically prefer to nest far away from human activity and noise. However, they may occasionally nest closer to humans if there are plenty of flowers and shrubs that provide natural shelter.
Here are some minimum distances hummingbirds may build nests from human presence:
- Suburban yards with feeders – 10 feet
- Rural cabins – 30 feet
- Hiking trails – 50+ feet
- Busy roads – 100+ feet
Nests are usually hidden discreetly out of sight high in trees, on branches, or wedged into rock crevices. Only the female builds the nest out of spider webs, moss, and lichens over 5-10 days. If she feels the area is unsafe due to human interference, she may abandon the nest site before finishing.
Do hummingbirds feed their chicks close to humans?
Adult hummingbirds are very protective of their chicks and do not want humans to get close to the nest. However, they will still make hundreds of trips per day to and from the nest to provide food even if it’s located nearby.
Mother hummingbirds can’t transport food in their beaks for very long without it spoiling. So even if the nest is 50 feet up in a tree in someone’s backyard, she may tirelessly shuttle back and forth feeding the chicks every few minutes from dawn to dusk.
The chicks only spend 2-3 weeks in the tiny nest before learning to fly and fend for themselves. During this time it’s crucial not to disturb the nest, as the mother may abandon the chicks if she feels the area is unsafe.
Do hummingbirds migrate close to humans?
During migration, hummingbirds make epic non-stop journeys of hundreds of miles across mountains, deserts, forests, and oceans. At these times, they have little choice but to fly close to human settlements and structures.
Hummingbirds often follow natural corridors like coastlines and rivers that happen to be lined with cities. They may take refuge in gardens and parks to rest and refuel on nectar. Some key areas where migrating hummingbirds pass close to humans include:
- Coastlines in California and the Gulf of Mexico
- Cities along the Rocky Mountains
- The shores of the Great Lakes
Setting up nectar feeders along migration pathways provides vital energy reserves for the tiny birds to continue their journey. It also gives people enjoyable opportunities to glimpse hummingbirds up close as they pass through.
Do hummingbirds sleep close to humans?
Hummingbirds have extremely high metabolisms and cannot go for long without feeding on nectar for energy. At night when flowers are closed, they enter a hibernation-like state called torpor to conserve energy.
Their body temperature drops and heartbeat slows dramatically. During torpor, hummingbirds are vulnerable as they cling to branches high above the ground. However, sometimes hummingbirds will sleep closer to humans for warmth and protection, especially during migration.
On cooler nights, they may slip into torpor just a few feet from occupied tents, porches, or tree houses. Their instincts tell them they are safer sleeping near humans than being exposed on their own. However, it is still crucial not to disturb them and cause them to waste energy fleeing.
Are there dangers from getting too close?
While having hummingbirds buzz by your face or sleep nearby may seem magical, it’s important not to get too carried away. There are risks associated with getting extremely close to hummingbirds:
- Making contact could injure their fragile bones and wings
- Loud noises or movements may startle them and interrupt feeding
- Getting water in nectar feeders could spread deadly fungus
- Letting cats roam could lead to predation
It’s best to enjoy hummingbirds from a slight distance even if they are comfortable approaching closely. Avoid making direct contact and any behavior that could risk their health and safety.
How can you attract hummingbirds close to you?
Here are some tips to ethically attract hummingbirds to come closer on their own terms:
- Get feeders designed to bring the nectar ports close to you
- Sit quietly and avoid sudden movements
- Plant native flowers and shrubs that appeal to them
- Set up feeders and plants in optimal viewing locations
- Provide multiple feeders to reduce squabbling
- Keep feeders clean and nectar fresh
- Be patient! It may take time for them to feel comfortable
Conclusion
Hummingbirds are stunning creatures that ultimately choose for themselves how close they get to humans. While they may buzz within inches of people’s faces at feeders, they still typically prefer to keep their distance and not be handled. By providing a safe, inviting environment with flowers and fresh nectar, you can organically attract hummingbirds to delight in their beauty up close while letting them retain their wild spirit.
