Size and Structure Hummingbird nests are tiny, usually no larger than a walnut or a golf ball. They are made from soft materials like plant fibers, moss, and spider silk, which allows the nest to stretch as the baby birds grow.
Location and Placement Hummingbirds prefer to build their nests in sheltered locations, such as the fork of a tree branch or dense shrubbery. They often choose spots with overhead cover to protect against predators and harsh weather.
Materials Used These delicate nests are crafted with an intricate mix of natural materials. Spider silk is a key component, allowing flexibility and durability. Lichen, moss, and soft plant fibers provide camouflage and insulation.
Camouflage for Protection To keep their eggs safe from predators like snakes and larger birds, hummingbirds often use lichen and bits of bark to blend the nest into its surroundings, making it almost invisible to the untrained eye.
Egg Size and Incubation Hummingbird eggs are about the size of jellybeans and typically come in clutches of one or two. The mother incubates them for about 14-18 days, keeping them warm and protected until they hatch.
Parental Care The female hummingbird is solely responsible for nest-building, incubating, and feeding the hatchlings. She brings nectar and small insects to nourish the young until they are ready to leave the nest in about three weeks.
Reusing Nests While hummingbirds rarely reuse the same nest, they may build a new one on top of an old one or recycle materials from previous nests. Some species may use the same nesting location year after year.