We have watched a hummingbird we named Emerald have two clutches. She successfully fledged three hummingbirds we named Ruby, Sapphire and Clover.

But unfortunately a Blue Jay discovered the nest and started eating the eggs, forcing Emerald to a different location. Alik removed the original nest to discourage any hummingbird from trying to nest there.

This year, another nest was built on the string of Christmas Tree lights in the exact same spot as the original nest.

As you can see, this new bird is not Emerald. But since Alik removed all traces of the previous nest, and this bird built her nest in exactly the same place as Emerald's, I can't help but think our new mama might be Ruby, Sapphire or Clover. And this bird has a large throat patch, just like Emerald!

As the new nest was being built, the local Blue Jay was perched up in the pomegranate tree watching the activity. The question became how to protect the nest.
Alik installed netting with holes big enough for a hummingbird to fly through, but too small for the Blue Jay to get the eggs.

Our mama hummingbird flies through the net with ease. On the morning of January 26 she arrived early in the morning and laid her first egg! Congratulations little mama! We will be watching as your little babies hatch and grow behind the safety of the netting that will protect you from any local predators!

Frequently Asked Questions

We made a video about all the frequently asked questions about hummingbird nests, you can watch it here:    • Hummingbird Nest Ultimate Beginner's ...  

❓What species of hummingbird is this?
This is an Allen's Hummingbird which normally breeds on the West coast of the United States and Mexico, although the bird has been spotted in other areas of the southern United States.

❓When did the mother hummingbird laid her eggs?
The first egg was laid on January 26th.

❓How long do hummingbirds incubate their eggs?
Hummingbirds incubate the eggs for 15 to 18 days.

❓How many clutches do hummingbirds have?
Hummingbirds in Southern California usually have two to three clutches each season.

❓When do baby hummingbirds open their eyes?
It usually takes more than a week for a baby’s eyes to open. On average, a newborn’s eyes are open 9 days after he has hatched.

❓What is the nest made from?
The nest is made from grasses and small twigs filled in with soft and fluffy fiber that the mother hummingbird finds on fuzzy plants like seed pods, dandelion down, cottonwood and the like. The nest is held together with spider silk and is soft and spongy to accommodate the rapidly increasing size of the baby birds. To camouflage the nest she put paint chips on the outside to try to blend in with the house.

❓How can I help with the nest building?
You can supply soft material for the mother hummingbird to use in her nest. You can buy nesting material for your hummingbird here: https://amzn.to/3pJYepN

❓What camera are you using for this live stream?
Here is the link to our camera: https://amzn.to/3alaoh8


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