Hummingbirds have some of the shortest incubation periods of any bird species. The mother hummingbird incubates the eggs for anywhere from 14 to 23 days before they hatch. The exact length of time depends on the specific species of hummingbird.
Incubation Period by Species
Here are some approximate incubation times for common hummingbird species:
| Species | Incubation Period |
|---|---|
| Ruby-throated Hummingbird | 14 days |
| Black-chinned Hummingbird | 16 days |
| Anna’s Hummingbird | 16-17 days |
| Rufous Hummingbird | 16-17 days |
| Allen’s Hummingbird | 16-17 days |
| Calliope Hummingbird | 17 days |
| Broad-tailed Hummingbird | 17-18 days |
| Buff-bellied Hummingbird | 18-19 days |
| Violet-crowned Hummingbird | 18-20 days |
| Magnificent Hummingbird | 18-21 days |
| Lucifer Hummingbird | 19-23 days |
As you can see, the average incubation time ranges from about 2 weeks for Ruby-throated Hummingbirds to up to 3 weeks for Lucifer Hummingbirds. Most hummingbird species fall somewhere in the 16-18 day range.
Incubation Process
Here is an overview of the hummingbird incubation process:
- The mother hummingbird lays two small white eggs, usually on consecutive days.
- She starts incubating the eggs as soon as the first egg is laid, rarely leaving the nest.
- She sits on the eggs almost continuously, only leaving for very brief periods to eat.
- She keeps the eggs warm with her body heat, usually maintaining a temperature of 96-104°F.
- She may shiver or rotate her body to evenly distribute warmth.
- After 2-3 weeks, the eggs hatch a few days apart.
- The young hummingbirds leave the nest in 3-4 weeks, fully independent.
Mother hummingbirds are dedicated incubators. They will only leave the nest for 5-15 minutes at a time to quickly find food, then hurry back to resume brooding. This near-constant contact is essential for keeping the tiny hummingbird eggs at the proper temperature.
Why Such Short Incubation?
There are a few key reasons hummingbird eggs hatch so quickly compared to most other birds:
- Small eggs – Hummingbird eggs are very tiny, often less than half an inch long. Their small size means they don’t need as much time to incubate and develop.
- High body temperature – A hummingbird’s high metabolic rate and body temperature contributes to faster embryonic development.
- Thin, porous eggshells – The shells allow efficient transfer of heat, moisture, and respiratory gases.
- Frequent feeding – The mother hummingbird feeds regularly throughout incubation, providing nutrients.
- Predator avoidance – Shortening the time eggs are in the nest reduces risks from predators.
The combination of these factors allows hummingbirds to hatch in just 2-3 weeks, which is exceptionally fast for birds. Their tiny offspring grow rapidly and leave the nest soon after hatching.
Challenges During Incubation
Incubating hummingbird eggs is an immense task for such a tiny bird. Here are some of the challenges mother hummingbirds face:
- Maintaining proper temperature and humidity levels in the nest
- Protecting eggs from predators like snakes, squirrels, and jays
- Sitting tightly on the nest despite wind, rain, and other elements
- Finding enough small insects and nectar to sustain herself throughout incubation
- Enduring long periods without a break from brooding
The mother is completely devoted to incubating her eggs. If she fails to properly regulate the temperature, humidity, respiratory gas exchange, or is unable to turn the eggs, they may not develop or hatch.
What Happens if a Mother Hummingbird is Disturbed?
If a mother hummingbird is scared away from the nest repeatedly, it can put the eggs at risk. Problems that may arise include:
- Eggs getting chilled, overheated, or drying out
- Disruption of embryonic growth
- Greater vulnerability to predators
- Potential egg death or failure to hatch
- Abandonment of eggs by the mother
To avoid these issues, it’s crucial not to disturb a mother hummingbird. Don’t get too close to an active nest. If she is frightened off the eggs too often, it can jeopardize their survival.
Conclusion
Mother hummingbirds incubate their tiny eggs for an amazingly short period of just 2-3 weeks. Their devotion and diligence in caring for the eggs is vital for successful hatching. Despite the challenges, mother hummingbirds are dedicated to providing the proper conditions for the embryos to develop – both temperature regulation and nutrition. With her tireless care, the eggs are ready to hatch in just 14-23 days, depending on the species. This shortened incubation gives hummingbirds a better chance of fledging their chicks despite their small size.
