Hummingbirds are some of the smallest and most energetic birds found in nature. Their fast wing beats, lighting quick movements, and ability to hover mid-air make them a joy to observe. Hummingbirds go through a quick breeding cycle, with females laying eggs and incubating them before the tiny hatchlings emerge. But how long does the hummingbird incubation period last from egg laying to hatching?
Incubation Period
The incubation period is the amount of time it takes for hummingbird eggs to develop and hatch after being laid by the female. For most hummingbird species, the average incubation period ranges from 14 to 23 days.
Here are some more specifics on hummingbird egg incubation times for common species:
- Ruby-throated Hummingbird – 14 days
- Black-chinned Hummingbird – 16 days
- Anna’s Hummingbird – 16-17 days
- Allen’s Hummingbird – 16-17 days
- Rufous Hummingbird – 16-17 days
- Calliope Hummingbird – 17 days
- Broad-tailed Hummingbird – 17-18 days
- Buff-bellied Hummingbird – 18-19 days
- Blue-throated Hummingbird – 18-23 days
- Magnificent Hummingbird – 18-23 days
As you can see, smaller hummingbird species like the Ruby-throated have shorter incubation times, while larger species can take up to 23 days for their eggs to hatch.
Developmental Stages
During the two to three weeks of incubation, the hummingbird embryo goes through some key developmental stages inside the egg before hatching:
- Days 1-3: The egg is fertilized and cell division begins.
- Days 4-6: Early tissue and organ development occurs.
- Days 7-13: Feathers and bill are formed. The skeleton hardens.
- Days 14-23: Rapid growth finalizes and the hatchling prepares to break out of the egg using its egg tooth.
The tiny hummingbird hatchling will have a lot of development still to do after emerging from its egg. But the incubation period allows for critical early growth before facing the outside world.
Egg Laying to Hatching Timeline
To summarize the full timeline from egg laying to hatching:
- The female hummingbird lays 1-3 tiny white eggs, each about the size of a jellybean.
- She incubates the eggs for 14-23 days depending on species.
- On the final day, the hatchling uses its egg tooth to start pecking an opening in the egg shell.
- It emerges from the eggshell very small, naked, and eyes closed.
The female continues to care for the hatchlings, feeding them regurgitated nectar and insects. The chicks grow quickly and leave the nest in 2-5 weeks.
Factors Affecting Incubation Period Length
Several key factors can influence the exact incubation time:
Species
As mentioned already, the hummingbird species plays a big role in incubation length. Smaller species tend to have shorter times while larger hummingbirds take longer.
Clutch Size
Clutch size refers to the number of eggs laid. When a female lays more eggs, she often starts incubating earlier before the clutch is complete. This means the first eggs hatch sooner than if she waited until all were laid before incubating.
Weather
Temperature and other weather events can potentially accelerate or slow down incubation. Warmer ambient temperatures may lead to slightly faster incubation.
Age of Female
Older, more experienced female hummingbirds tend to have better timing and success incubating eggs compared to younger first-time mothers.
Predators and Threats
If eggs are in danger from predators or threats like storms, a female may accelerate incubation to try and hatch the clutch faster.
Health of Eggs
Any defects, deficiencies or damage to the eggs can slow down or totally inhibit successful development and hatching.
Parental Care Roles
Both the male and female hummingbirds play important roles in the breeding and incubation process:
Female Hummingbird
- Builds the tiny cup-shaped nest out of soft materials like down feathers, spider webs and lichens.
- Lays the eggs over a period of 2-5 days, usually 2 eggs per clutch.
- Incubates the eggs alone, sitting on them constantly and rotating them.
- Feeds the hatchlings regurgitated nectar and insects.
Male Hummingbird
- Mates with female to fertilize the eggs.
- May contribute some nest material.
- Defends the territory from rivals and threats.
- Brings food like nectar and spiders to the female while she incubates.
- May also help feed hatchlings.
The male hummingbird will continue guarding his territory even after female and young have left the nest. He does not participate directly in incubation, but his protection provides safety for the nest.
Tips for Hatching Hummingbird Eggs
Here are some tips for giving hummingbird eggs the best chance of successful hatching:
- Do not disturb or handle the nest once eggs are laid. Mother knows best!
- Ensure nest has adequate shelter from weather and predators.
- Avoid trimming trees/vegetation that may disturb nests.
- Don’t use pesticides which could be harmful.
- Provide nectar feeders for food and energy.
- Keep outdoor pet cats indoors – they see nests as prey.
With the proper care and incubation period length, hummingbird eggs have a high rate of healthy hatching!
Conclusion
The incubation period for hummingbirds ranges from 14 to 23 days depending on the species. The tiny eggs undergo significant developmental changes before the hatchlings emerge. The female hummingbird dedicates herself fully to incubating the eggs and caring for the young, while the male guards the territory. Providing a safe and undisturbed environment helps ensure the eggs hatch on time. Observing a nest from egg to hatchling is a special treat for any nature lover.
