What Birds Will Use a Hummingbird House?
While the name suggests otherwise, actual hummingbirds do not use hummingbird houses. Instead, these structures primarily attract other small birds seeking shelter and nesting opportunities.
The Hummingbird House Misnomer
The term “hummingbird house” is actually a misnomer. Hummingbirds, despite their diminutive size, are fiercely independent and typically build their tiny, cup-shaped nests in the forks of tree branches, using materials like spider webs, lichen, and down. They rarely, if ever, use birdhouses or other human-made structures. These houses are simply not designed with hummingbirds in mind. What birds will use a hummingbird house, then, becomes the real question.
Understanding Bird Housing Preferences
To understand which birds might utilize a hummingbird house, we must first consider the house’s design. Typical hummingbird houses are small, often multi-compartment structures, with small entrance holes. This design makes them suitable for small, cavity-nesting birds. Let’s explore some potential tenants:
- Wrens: House Wrens are perhaps the most common occupants of hummingbird houses. They are adaptable and readily accept man-made nesting sites.
- Chickadees: Black-capped Chickadees and other chickadee species may also utilize these houses, especially if the entrance hole is appropriately sized.
- Titmice: Similar in size and nesting habits to chickadees, titmice (like the Tufted Titmouse) are also potential inhabitants.
- Nuthatches: Some smaller Nuthatch species, such as the Brown-headed Nuthatch, might find a hummingbird house suitable.
- Tree Swallows: Tree Swallows, while generally preferring larger cavities, might use a hummingbird house if other options are limited.
- Downy Woodpeckers: Occasionally, the smallest woodpeckers may select such a small housing.
Factors Influencing Bird Selection:
Several factors influence which birds will ultimately choose a specific hummingbird house:
- Entrance Hole Size: A smaller entrance hole deters larger birds and favors smaller species like wrens and chickadees.
- Location: The house’s location in the yard impacts its appeal. Houses placed in sheltered areas near trees and shrubs are more likely to attract birds.
- Availability of Other Nesting Sites: If natural cavities and other birdhouses are scarce, birds are more likely to investigate and use a hummingbird house.
- Competition: Competition between different bird species for nesting sites can also play a role.
Preparing a Hummingbird House for Residents
To increase the likelihood of attracting desirable tenants to your hummingbird house, consider the following:
- Cleaning: Clean the house thoroughly before the nesting season begins (early spring). Remove any old nesting material or debris.
- Placement: Mount the house securely on a pole or tree, at a height of 5-10 feet.
- Protection: Provide some protection from predators, such as a predator guard around the pole.
- Avoid Pesticides: Do not use pesticides near the house, as they can harm the birds and their young.
Common Mistakes
- Expecting Hummingbirds: The most common mistake is expecting hummingbirds to use the house. Remember, they build their own nests.
- Improper Placement: Placing the house in direct sunlight or in an exposed location can deter birds.
- Neglecting Cleaning: Failure to clean the house regularly can lead to parasite infestations and discourage birds from using it.
- Using Unsafe Materials: Avoid using treated wood or materials that could be harmful to birds.
What birds will use a hummingbird house ultimately comes down to understanding their preferences and providing a safe and suitable nesting environment.
Table: Potential Hummingbird House Occupants
| Bird Species | Preferred Habitat | Entrance Hole Size (Approx.) | Likelihood of Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| ——————- | ————————————– | —————————- | —————– |
| House Wren | Gardens, woodlands, brushy areas | 1-1/8 inches | High |
| Black-capped Chickadee | Woodlands, parks, suburbs | 1-1/8 inches | Medium |
| Tufted Titmouse | Woodlands, parks, suburbs | 1-1/4 inches | Medium |
| Brown-headed Nuthatch | Pine woodlands | 1-1/4 inches | Low |
| Tree Swallow | Open areas near water | 1-3/4 inches | Low |
| Downy Woodpecker | Woodlands, parks, suburbs | 1-1/2 inches | Very Low |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Why are these houses called “hummingbird houses” if hummingbirds don’t use them?
The exact origin of the term is unclear, but it likely arose from a misunderstanding or marketing gimmick. The small size of the houses perhaps led people to assume they were intended for hummingbirds, despite the lack of evidence. It’s a misleading name that persists even today.
Will providing nesting material help attract birds to the house?
Providing nesting material nearby can be helpful. Offer materials like dried grass, moss, feathers, and cottonwood down. Place them in a mesh bag or suet feeder near the house.
How often should I clean a hummingbird house?
Clean the house at least once a year, ideally after the nesting season has ended (late summer or early fall). You can also clean it before the nesting season begins in early spring.
What can I do to discourage unwanted birds, like House Sparrows, from using the house?
House Sparrows are invasive and can outcompete native birds. One strategy is to avoid providing food that attracts them and to monitor the house regularly. If House Sparrows begin building a nest, remove it promptly. Smaller entrance holes may also deter them.
What size entrance hole is best for attracting a variety of birds?
A 1-1/8 inch entrance hole is generally suitable for attracting wrens and chickadees. A slightly larger hole, around 1-1/4 inches, might also attract titmice and smaller nuthatches.
Is it safe to paint a hummingbird house?
Yes, but use non-toxic, water-based paint in light, natural colors. Avoid dark colors, which can cause the house to overheat.
Where is the best place to mount a hummingbird house?
Mount the house in a sheltered location, away from direct sunlight and strong winds. A spot near trees and shrubs is ideal. Face the entrance hole away from prevailing winds.
How high off the ground should I mount a hummingbird house?
A height of 5-10 feet is generally recommended. This provides some protection from predators while still being accessible to birds.
What if a bird builds a nest in the house but then abandons it?
If a nest is abandoned, remove it promptly to prevent parasite infestations and make the house available for other birds.
Will birds use a hummingbird house in the winter?
Some birds may use a hummingbird house in the winter for shelter from the cold. Leaving the house up during the winter can provide valuable protection.
How can I tell if a bird is actually using the house?
Signs of use include birds entering and exiting the house, carrying nesting material, and vocalizations coming from inside.
What if wasps or other insects build nests in the hummingbird house?
If wasps or other insects build nests in the house, remove them carefully, wearing protective clothing. You can try applying a thin layer of petroleum jelly around the entrance hole to deter insects. Be cautious to not harm the intended birds.