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The only thing more incredible than how fast a hummingbird flaps its wings is how it builds its nest. These birds are masters of camouflage when it comes to construction. A nest is rarely found if seen at all, but building one is a monumental undertaking. For such a tiny bird, its nest is more a work of art than a means of shelter. This video by thehummingbirdslover_s shows the final result, but here’s the process from start to finish.
A Hummingbird Nest Starts Small
A hummingbird’s nest doesn’t need to be as large as other birds. Chicks only stay in the nest for about a month before learning to fly. During that time, mama and her babies have plenty of space. According to this video, the nest is about two inches long and one inch deep. A hummingbird will build a new nest each time she’s about to lay eggs, and the process is no small feat.
Nests can be found relatively close to the ground. They’re usually built between five and ten feet in the air, making them practically invisible to the human eye. At times, a nest in a tall tree can be found as high as 90 feet. Trees aren’t the only places hummingbirds will nest, and they’re sometimes found in unusual places like flower planters or porch lights. They’re small enough to fit practically anywhere there’s an opening, so don’t be surprised if you find one randomly in your backyard!
However, hummingbirds use specific building materials to ensure their nests are practically undiscoverable. Their small size somewhat restricts them, and they can only carry things that don’t weigh them down. Even so, they find materials from the surrounding area that will camouflage their nesting spot. A hummingbird might build its nest from pieces of bark, moss, lichen, cotton or fabric scraps, feathers, and spider web silk. From the outside, a nest will look like part of the branch it’s on or a bundle of underbrush.
The Process Is Exhausting But Impressive
Male hummingbirds take a backseat to the nest building. Females scavage for materials and will make as many as 400 trips to complete their nest. Even after the eggs are laid, male hummingbirds have no part in caring for hatchlings. Female hummingbirds are a one-woman show, making their nests all the more impressive. A nest usually takes several days to complete, each day full of searching and carrying materials.
The nest is just big enough for hummingbird eggs, roughly the size of a coffee bean. One female hummingbird can lay a clutch of up to three eggs. When they hatch, the hatchlings have enough room to feed and grow. When their wings are fully developed, they flee the nest, and the cycle begins again. The nest will not be reused, meaning some species make as many as two per year. Over the course of their lives, a hummingbird can make up to 10 unique nests.
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