Hummingbird Nest Rebuilding: When Hummingbirds Will or Will Not Reproduce After Disturbance
Have you ever wondered whether hummingbirds will rebuild the nest if you accidentally knock it down? This is a common concern for gardeners and nature lovers alike, especially when the nest has been occupied by several young over the past few years. This article aims to address the topic comprehensively, discussing whether hummingbirds will rebuild their nests after disturbances and providing interesting insights into their behavior.
Hummingbirds will typically rebuild their nests
When a hummingbird nest is disturbed, there is a good chance that the birds will rebuild it. This behavior is particularly interesting because sometimes the nest can still be occupied by chicks when it is removed. Despite this, hummingbirds have the ability to quickly and efficiently reconstruct their nests, ensuring the safety and well-being of their offspring.
A real-life example of nest resconstruction
A study conducted by a group associated with the largest power company in Arizona provides an intriguing real-life example. Occasionally, ravens and other birds would build large nests on transmission towers, which could potentially cause short circuits and other issues. In such cases, the power company would reach out to a team of volunteers to remove the chicks and temporarily relocate them.
During the process, the chicks were carefully examined, weighed, hydrated, and given any necessary medical care. Meanwhile, the nesting materials were removed and placed on a non-conductive platform to prevent any electrical issues. The nest was then reinstalled at a safe distance, and the chicks were returned to their nest. Despite this, the parents sometimes returned to the new location and dismantled the nest to rebuild it in the original position. This behavior highlights the importance of the nest's location to the hummingbirds.
The influence of location on hummingbird nest reconstruction
The success of nest reconstruction often depends on the availability of a suitable location. Hummingbirds are known to be very particular about their nesting sites, and the location of the nest can significantly impact their decision to rebuild. In the Arizona study, the parents' behavior was driven by the need to ensure the nest was in a safe and advantageous position for their young. This example underscores the importance of location in hummingbird nest reconstruction.
When is it reasonable to remove a hummingbird nest?
If you find a hummingbird nest near areas where rebuilding it might pose a threat (such as near power lines), it might be necessary to remove it for safety reasons. However, if the nest is not in a hazardous location and removing it may cause unnecessary stress to the hummingbirds, it is better to leave the nest undisturbed. Hummingbirds have a lot of energy and time to dedicate to their young, and removing their nest could force them to find a new location, which may not be as optimal.
Instead of removing the nest, you can take steps to ensure that any disturbance is minimal and that the hummingbirds will be less likely to abandon their nest. Providing a nearby alternative safe nesting site or simply observing from a distance can be effective strategies. By respecting the natural behaviors of these unique birds, you can ensure that they continue to thrive and flourish in their natural habitat.