The Truth about Hummingbird Houses
Why Hummingbirds Don’t Use a hummingbird house, and Why They Might Choose a Nesting Platform
Many bird enthusiasts are drawn to the idea of providing a “hummingbird house” to attract these delicate creatures, but in reality, hummingbirds don’t typically use birdhouses in the way that many other species do. Understanding why can help us better appreciate these tiny wonders and offer more effective ways to support them.
Why Hummingbirds Don’t Use Houses
Hummingbirds are unique in their nesting habits. Unlike other birds, they don’t seek out enclosed structures for shelter or nesting. Their natural instinct is to build open, cup-shaped nests in tree branches or shrubs, usually hidden from predators and away from human-made structures. These nests are carefully constructed with soft materials like plant down, spider silk, and cotton, and they are often placed in places that provide ample access to nectar sources like flowers and feeders.
Because of their need for open spaces and proximity to food, hummingbirds don’t use traditional birdhouses. A house would be too confining, and its enclosed space offers no access to the food sources they rely on.
Why Hummingbirds Might Use a Nesting Platform
Although they don’t use traditional houses, hummingbirds may be more inclined to use a nesting platform. A platform is simply a flat surface, 
often mounted in a tree or on a pole, that offers a secure, open space for them to build their nests. The key difference between a house and a platform is that a platform doesn’t enclose the bird, giving it the freedom to come and go as needed.
A hummingbird nesting platform is the closest thing you can get to a hummingbird house and it provides the same function of bringing the hummingbirds in close where you can watch them nesting and raising their young. It can be a great option for attracting hummingbirds because it provides the safety of a stable, elevated surface while still allowing access to food and open space. Some birdwatchers create specialized platforms with small divots to simulate a suitable location for a nest. These platforms are often placed near abundant nectar sources, such as flowering plants or hummingbird feeders, which makes them even more appealing to hummingbirds looking for a convenient place to build their nests.
When choosing the best location for your hummingbird nesting platform, consider the following factors to ensure it’s inviting and safe for the birds:
Hummingbirds typically spend four or five days working on their nests, requiring consistent access to nectar during this time to maintain their energy. To support their needs, it’s important to keep your hummingbird feeders about thirty yards away from the nesting area. Ensure the feeders are kept full and clean to provide a steady source of nourishment. Territorial hummingbirds will appreciate the availability of feeders in a location that won’t disturb their nesting efforts, and the presence of multiple feeding stations can help minimize conflicts between them.
Hummingbirds are highly territorial birds and often engage in aggressive behavior, both fighting with each other and stealing from other nests. For this reason, it’s best to only have one hummingbird nesting in your are at a time. Also, to eliminate territorial fighting between hummingbirds keep your feeders out of sight from one another. That makes it more difficult for one bird to defend two feeders and dominate the area.
Rustic Handmade Hummingbird Nest Builder
- SUPERIOR CRAFTSMANSHIP: Built by experienced southeastern Kentucky artisans, each nesting house is individually handcrafted to ensure quality and attention to detail
- STURDY DESIGN: Crafted with durable solid pine wood, waterproof glue, rust resistant coated screws and recycled, rot-resistant poplar tree bark that acts as a natural attractant to hummingbirds
- EASY INSTALLATION: Heavy duty D-ring hanger makes placement simple, whether under an eave, covered porch or near your hummingbird feeder
Basic strategy for placing your nesting platform
Height and Shelter: Place the hummingbird platform/house at a height of 5 to 10 feet above the ground. This provides safety from predators while being accessible to the hummingbirds. Choose a location that is sheltered from strong winds, heavy rain, or harsh sunlight. A shaded area near trees or bushes is ideal
Proximity to Food Sources: Hummingbirds need plenty of nectar, so position your nesting box near flowering plants or shrubs that attract them. Also, you can place a nectar feeder nearby to make the area even more appealing.
Safe and Quiet Environment: Choose a spot that’s away from human activity or areas with heavy foot traffic. Hummingbirds prefer a quiet, undisturbed environment to build and raise their nests.
Avoid Direct Sunlight: While some sun is beneficial for warmth, too much direct sunlight can make the box too hot. Ideally, place the box in a location where it gets morning sunlight and afternoon shade.
Visibility and Easy Access: Make sure the nesting box is in an area where you can easily observe the birds from a distance without disturbing them. Avoid placing it in locations that are too difficult to monitor or maintain.
Protection from Predators: Avoid areas close to predator-rich environments, such as areas with cats or squirrels. Make sure the box is mounted securely, and use baffles or other deterrents to protect the hummingbirds.
Set of 2 Amish Made Recycled Plastic Hummingbird Nests
About this item
- Two unique, recycled plastic platforms create spots for hummingbirds to nest
- Upright back section attaches to a post or wall easily
- An opening filled with nesting material helps these birds line their nests
- Brown, pitched roof protects the nesting material from rain
- Faux leaves on the front of each platform provide perching area
By selecting a well-hidden yet accessible spot with food and shelter nearby, you’ll be setting up a welcoming and safe space for hummingbirds to nest.
Under the eaves of your house
One of the best places to put up a hummingbird nesting platform is under the eaves of your house. Here, under the eaves, if you place a nectar feeder nearby, you have a good height and a food source is nearby. It’s safe and quit and it’s out of direct sunlight. You have easy visibility and it’s protected from predators. You have in essence met all the qualifications for the perfect location of your nesting platform, mentioned above!
Hummingbird nesting materials
You should also provide soft nesting material nearby for the female hummingbird to use in constructing her nest. Here’s a link to amazon.com where you can find the soft nesting materials that the hummingbird can use to construct her nest on the hummingbird house / platform. .
Conclusion
While hummingbirds won’t use enclosed birdhouses, they may be drawn to nesting platforms that offer an open, secure spot to raise their young. If you’re hoping to support hummingbirds in your garden, consider setting up a platform in a quiet, sheltered area with easy access to nectar. This approach, along with maintaining a welcoming environment with flowering plants and feeders, will encourage these tiny, beautiful birds to visit and potentially even nest in your space.
Learn more about hummingbird nesting and how to attract hummingbirds into your yard.
