When it comes to attracting hummingbirds to your garden, many homeowners put up bird feeders or plant colorful flowers. But have you ever considered providing shelter for these delightful creatures as well?
Hummingbirds, though small and delicate, are more than capable of finding a safe haven in nature. However, you may wonder if a birdhouse would entice them to stay and nest in your yard. This article will discuss various aspects of hummingbird behavior and explore whether or not they may use a birdhouse.
Though one might expect the answer to be simple, it may surprise you to learn that hummingbirds don’t generally seek the type and style of birdhouses we typically see in stores or yards for shelter. To entice and accommodate these small birds, you need to gain a deeper understanding of their nesting preferences and behaviors. Without further ado, let us dive into the fascinating world of hummingbirds and their housing needs!
Hummingbird Nesting Habits
How hummingbirds build nests
To understand why hummingbirds need particular types of shelter, it’s essential to know about their nesting habits. Females usually construct small, cup-shaped nests in tree branches or shrubs using moss, lichen, plant fibers, and spider silk. The spider silk is vital, as it allows their nests to stretch and adjust as the baby hummingbirds grow.
Choosing a nest site
When selecting a nest site, a female hummingbird looks for high, secure spots in trees or shrubs that offer protection from the sun, rain, wind, and predators such as squirrels and larger birds. They often choose deciduous trees, which provide ample shade for their eggs and nestlings.
Why Traditional Birdhouses Aren’t Ideal for Hummingbirds?
Ventilation issues
Traditional birdhouses have ventilation issues that aren’t suitable for humidity-sensitive hummingbird eggs. Hummingbirds require more airflow than a closed-in birdhouse provides to maintain the right temperature and humidity levels.
Size and shape
Most commercially available birdhouses are designed for larger bird species such as sparrows, wrens, or swallows. The entrances and overall size of these birdhouses are too big and not practical for hummingbirds.
Food supply
Hummingbirds have a high metabolism and need to feed frequently. Providing ample food nearby is crucial, and a traditional birdhouse often lacks nearby flowers and plants that attract insects and provide nectar. Instead of using birdhouses, hummingbirds prefer natural shelter areas with convenient access to their preferred food sources.
Alternative Home Solutions for Hummingbirds
Nesting platforms
A more suitable alternative to birdhouses for hummingbirds is a nesting platform. These resemble small ledges or shelves which mimic a tree branch’s surface. A building or buying a nesting platform for your yard could provide a welcome place for hummingbirds to build their nests.
Creating a hummingbird-friendly garden
Another way to entice hummingbirds to your yard is to make your garden more appealing to them. Planting a variety of native flowers, vines, and trees that produce nectar will provide food and support hummingbird nesting. Also, be sure to provide a water source, such as a shallow bird bath, for them to drink and bathe.
Helping Hummingbirds Thrive
Nesting materials
You can encourage hummingbirds to nest in your yard by offering nesting materials. Hang mesh bags containing clean, natural materials like moss or leaves, and allow spiderwebs to accumulate, as these will be used to build nests.
Predator protection
Hummingbirds need protection from predators like squirrels, large birds, or domestic cats. Make sure your nesting platform is high enough or has surrounding branches to deter predators from reaching their nests.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while hummingbirds are unlikely to use a traditional birdhouse, they can still thrive in your yard with the right accommodations. Creating a hummingbird-friendly environment and providing appropriate nesting options like a platform can encourage these vibrant birds to make a home in your garden.
FAQ
- How often do hummingbirds nest?
Female hummingbirds usually raise one or two broods per breeding season, each consisting of two eggs.
- Can I buy a hummingbird-specific birdhouse?
It is challenging to find a specialized hummingbird birdhouse on the market. Your best bet is building or buying a nesting platform or creating a hummingbird-friendly yard.
- Should I keep my hummingbird feeder near the nesting platform?
You can keep the feeder near the nesting platform, but make sure it is not too close, as this might attract predators.
- What types of flowers should I plant in my hummingbird garden?
Hummingbirds are attracted to brightly colored, nectar-rich flowers such as trumpet vine, bee balm, and red hot poker, among many others.
- Do hummingbirds migrate?
Yes, most species of hummingbirds migrate to warmer climates for the winter and return to their breeding grounds during spring.