Hummingbird, with their dazzling iridescent feathers and rapid, fluttering wings, capture our imagination with their beauty and agility. However, the tiny nests and eggs of these remarkable birds are often overlooked, despite their crucial role in the hummingbird’s life cycle. These nests, sometimes no larger than a thimble, are not just marvels of nature but also legally protected treasures.
As spring approaches and yard work begins, it’s vital to be aware of these delicate homes and the laws that safeguard them. Discover why these minuscule nests deserve our attention and how you can help protect them while maintaining your outdoor space.
The Remarkable World of Hummingbird Nests
Hummingbirds, with their iridescent feathers and rapid wing beats, are among nature’s most fascinating creatures. But beyond their captivating flight lies an equally remarkable aspect of their lives—their incredibly small nests and eggs. For instance, the nest of a Ruby-throated hummingbird is no larger than a thimble, and their eggs are about the size of jelly beans.
Where to Find These Tiny Nests
Given their minuscule size, it’s easy to overlook a hummingbird nest, especially since these birds often choose unexpected locations to build them. While they typically nest in sheltered areas like shrubs and trees, don’t be surprised if you find one on your porch, garage, or even hanging from your clothesline. Hummingbirds prefer to build their nests in places where branches fork, providing stability and cover.
Crafting a Camouflaged Home
The construction of a hummingbird nest is a delicate and intricate process. The mother bird uses a combination of twigs, plant fibers, moss, and leaves, binding them together with spider silk. This silk not only holds the nest together but also secures it to the branch.
Inside, the nest is lined with soft, fluffy plant fibers, creating a warm and safe environment for the eggs. Typically, the female hummingbird lays two eggs and incubates them for 15 to 18 days. Once hatched, the chicks remain under her care for 18 to 28 days before venturing out on their own.
Legal Protections for Hummingbird Nests
While the mother hummingbird’s natural camouflage helps protect her nest from predators, it also makes it easy for humans to miss. To address this, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has issued a reminder to homeowners to check for hummingbird nests before trimming trees and shrubs, especially in the spring. “Hummingbird eggs are tiny, about the size of jelly beans!” the agency warns, urging caution during yard work.
It’s important to note that tampering with bird nests, especially those that are “active” (containing eggs or birds), is illegal. The 1918 Migratory Bird Treaty Act, a federal law, protects these nests, making it illegal to disturb, move, or destroy them without a special permit. These permits are rarely granted, emphasizing the importance of leaving nests undisturbed. Even keeping an empty nest for educational purposes may require both state and federal permits.
Understanding Hummingbird Behavior
Hummingbirds are quick and agile, capable of flapping their wings up to 80 times per second. Their high-energy lifestyle means they need to eat frequently. While they are best known for sipping nectar from flowers, they also consume a variety of small insects like mosquitoes, spiders, gnats, and fruit flies to meet their protein needs. If you spot a female hummingbird near your home, it’s likely that her nest is close by, as these birds don’t travel far from their food sources.
Help Protect Hummingbirds and Their Nests
By spreading awareness and being mindful of these tiny nests, you can play a part in protecting these remarkable creatures. Before you start trimming trees or shrubs, take a moment to check for hummingbird nests and help ensure that these tiny homes remain safe and undisturbed. Share this information with others to help preserve the beauty and wonder of hummingbirds in your community.
