Due to the reduced number of trees in the western US, nests are increasingly being found on artificial structures. As the landscape, becomes dominated by humans, it’s likely these little, birds will still be able to continue to survive and thrive.

To test if a branch is strong enough to support the nest and her young, the female flies at a prospective branch at great speed. She, crash-lands onto it and clings to it, repeating the process until she can be sure that it is suitable.

Sticking lichen to the nest for camouflage, isn’t a random process. The hummingbird painstakingly blends the construction into its surroundings, placing the lighter pieces on parts where the stiff hits, and the darker parts in the shade.

The side of the pest that faces, the wind is made thicker in order to protect the chicks from the cold. However, to prevent them from overheating, their mother will make small gaps in the other side-of the nest, to allow air to flow through.

These little birds take great pride in their nests, and are quite, particular about where they take residence. They are known to shun nest boxes left out in gardens, as they feel too enclosed and unable to escape quickly should they need to.