Hummingbirds are tiny, beautiful birds that are a joy to watch. Female hummingbirds build intricate, tiny nests out of plant fibers, spider webs, and lichen to lay their even tinier eggs in. However, these delicate nests are vulnerable to predators who would eat the eggs and baby birds. Protecting hummingbird nests from predators takes some work, but it can be done through smart nest placement, deterrents, and monitoring. With the right techniques, you can help ensure mama hummingbirds safely and successfully raise their chicks.
Where do hummingbirds nest?
Hummingbirds often nest in trees, shrubs, or on man-made structures. When choosing a nesting site, they look for a few key features:
- Forked branches – Hummingbirds build nests in the forks of branches for structural support.
- Cover – They prefer nest sites with leaves or other coverage to help conceal the nest.
- Proximity to food sources – Hummingbirds nest near the flowers they feed on for quick access to nectar for themselves and their babies.
Some of the most common hummingbird nesting sites include:
Tree branches
Branches of trees like oaks, maples, and cypress provide great nesting platforms. Hummingbirds often choose an outer branch fork on a moderately thin branch. This allows the nest to be hidden while being supported on either side.
Shrubs and vines
Shrubs like lilacs or vines such as honeysuckle give excellent coverage. Their dense growth conceals the nest well.
Rafters, bridges, and buildings
Hummingbirds will often nest under the eaves of buildings, on beams, or under bridges. These man-made structures mimic natural nest sites by providing an overhang structure to build on.
Common hummingbird nest predators
Many animals find hummingbird eggs and chicks to be tasty snacks. Common nest predators include:
Squirrels
Squirrels are agile climbers and can easily get to nests in trees and eaves. They raid nests for the protein-rich eggs.
Cats
Curious, tree-climbing cats can be a threat. They may swat at adult hummingbirds or eat unattended chicks.
Crows
Intelligent crows will scout out nests and consume eggs. Some crows even learn to pierce eggs without cracking the shell so the parent doesn’t notice!
Jays
Like crows, jays are opportunistic predators that will eat eggs and chicks.
Snakes
Snakes raid nests in shrubs and on branches for tasty hummingbird eggs.
Chipmunks
Chipmunks climb trees and shrubs to get to nests and will eat hummingbird eggs.
Opossums
Nocturnal opossums come out at night when hummingbirds are sleeping. They’ll steal into a nest and eat eggs.
Raccoons
Mischievous raccoons use their dexterous paws to ransack nests at night. They damage structures and take eggs.
How to deter hummingbird nest predators
To keep mom and baby hummingbirds safe in the nest, it takes diligence. Here are some techniques to deter predators:
Use predator guards
A metal mesh predator guard placed around the nest protects from animals trying to get in. You can buy ready-made guards or make your own from a cylinder of hardware cloth. Take care not to disturb the nest when placing it.
Use deterrents on branches and poles
Apply a slippery surface like petroleum jelly or hot pepper wax on potential climbing routes. This can prevent animals from being able to climb up. Avoid getting any deterrent directly on the nest.
Block access points
Seal up holes where predators could enter. Use wire mesh or wood to close gaps in eaves, porches, or bridges where climbing animals could reach nests.
Use fake predators
Scare predators away with decoys like fake owls, snakes, or hawks. Move them every few days so animals don’t get used to them. Shiny pinwheels or pans that move in the breeze can also startle prowlers.
Install electric fencing
For ground predators like cats, electric wire fencing around posts and yard perimeters can deliver a safe shock. Use solar power and mix up placement to prevent animals from learning to jump over it.
Trim vegetation
Prune back branches and leaves around the nest to remove hidden access points for climbing predators. Open sight lines also remove blind spots allowing you to better spot intruders.
Use predator urine
Spraying synthetic predator urine like coyote, fox, or bobcat pee creates the illusion of a territorial predator being nearby. The strong scent deters nibblers. Reapply every few days.
How to monitor hummingbird nests
Keep a close eye on hummingbird nests to spot potential predators and identify any living there:
Watch behavior
Observe the hummingbird behaviors. Distress calls and aggressive diving may indicate a predator is nearby that needs to be removed. Missing adults may signal a daytime predator got them.
Check for tracks and trails
Look for signs of animal tracks, trails, and disturbance in vegetation around nests. These are clues to how predators may be accessing the area.
Inspect nests daily
Peak in nests daily to count eggs and chicks present. Missing or damaged eggs may reveal a nighttime predator is raiding the nest.
Use cameras
Set up a surveillance camera near nests aimed at likely predator pathways and approaches. Review the footage to see what animals come near and when.
Use flour patches
Spread flour patches on the ground around nest posts and check for animal tracks. The tracks allow you to identify nocturnal visitors.
Check nests at night
Do periodic checks on nests at night when nocturnal prowlers are active. Shine a light to startle and identify critters.
Listen for noises
Stay alert for odd noises coming from nest areas at night that could indicate a predator is active.
Tips for safe predator control
When managing hummingbird nest predators, be sure to do so in a safe, ethical way:
- Use non-lethal deterrents whenever possible.
- Only trap animals in humane, escape-proof traps if relocation is legal in your area.
- Cover or fill potential perches near nests instead of harming territorial birds.
- Avoid methods like glue traps that cause prolonged suffering.
- Remove food attractants like outdoor pet bowls or uncovered trash.
- Set up alternative food sources like suet feeders to divert animals away from nest areas.
- Never disturb active nests or baby birds as this is illegal.
Conclusion
Protecting hummingbird nests from predators takes vigilance, but it helps ensure local hummingbird populations thrive. By using smart nest placement, deterrents, monitoring, and humane control, you can create a safe haven for tiny hummingbird families. With a little work, the amazing hummingbird nests in your yard will be secured from predators and the aerial ballets of mama and baby hummers can be enjoyed for seasons to come.
