Attracting Hummingbirds

Lesson 3: YOUR VERY OWN HUMMINGBIRDS

HUMMINGBIRD NESTS AND FLEDGLINGS

All female hummingbirds lay two white eggs, which are only about half as large as a jellybean. They place their tiny cup nests out of sight of predators, so nests can be hard to find! They also build nests in areas that are shielded from wind to maintain the integrity of the nest and keep it warm. Spider silk ingeniously holds the nesting materials together. See my book, "Hummingbirds: Jewels On Air" for photographs of nests.

Baby hummers will leave the nest within 3-4 weeks of hatching. When young ones begin to practice flying, they must hold their feet tightly to the nest to keep from lifting off before they're ready. Once they have gotten the hang of flying, the mother hummingbird will show them where the flowers and insects are. Occasionally, she will also show them nectar feeders. After she has shown them how to feed, she may chase them away, leaving them to begin their solitary life.

Males do not help in the rearing of the young at all and may mate with several females in one season. This is probably nature's way of trying to ensure the continuation of the species.

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