So there I was, trimming the hedge out back, completely checked out and dreaming of lunch — when I nearly clipped the tiniest little nest I’ve ever seen. And I mean tiny. It was like a cup made out of cobwebs, the size of a golf ball. Inside? Two pristine white, jelly-bean-sized eggs. I froze. Turns out, I nearly tampered with something highly protected and rather precious: hummingbird eggs.
Yep. These pint-sized marvels you can find in your yard are not only adorable but also legally protected. For curious gardeners, nature lovers and just about anyone who doesn’t want to unknowingly break the law (and a hummingbird mama’s heart), this one’s for you.
What Are These Small Eggs in My Yard?
If you’ve seen an inconceivably small nest—a weave the size of your thumbnail made out of dandelion fluff, spiderweb and plant fiber—hung from one of your tree branches, or a bush, or even a set of string lights on your patio —congratulations, you may have a hummingbird nest. These nests are typically walnut shell-sized, made from spider silk, moss and plant fluff. It is essentially the fairy cottage of bird nests.
Inside, you will usually find two eggs. Not three. Not four. Just two. That’s how hummingbirds roll. And those eggs? They’re roughly jelly bean-sized (yes, really). It’s crazy how that little egg hatches into one of the coolest birds on Earth.
HUMMINGBIRDS ARE FEDERALLY PROTECTED.
And here’s where things get real: disturbing, moving or removing hummingbird eggs or nests is illegal. The Migratory Bird Treaty Act of 1918 (still in full force) gives the federal government jurisdiction over all bird species in the U.S. that are native to the country, which includes hummingbirds. That means that if you purposely mess with a nest or the eggs, you could be slapped with steep fines or worse. And nobody wants to have to explain that one to a judge.
And it’s not just the eggs. The law covers the bird, the nest and even the nesting site while it’s active. So if you see one, hands off until the chicks have fledged and the nest is obviously abandoned.
So … What Do You Do If You Discover a Hummingbird Nest?
First off—don’t panic. And do not under any circumstances touch it. Here’s what to do instead:
Cease all yard work in that area.
If you are pruning branches or hedging, and you come upon a nest during the process, stop. Even small vibrations from your tools can shake the eggs or scare the mother off the nest.
Give it space.
Avoid going close to the nest too frequently. Curious kids or pets? Gently redirect them away. Hummingbird mothers are small, but mighty — and they’ll be intolerant of intruders.
Observe from afar.
If you’re into looking at birds, bring binoculars. The babies grow very quickly, you’ll be amazed at how much happens from egg to full-on racing around your backyard in three weeks flat.
Wait it out.
Most North American hummingbirds are temporary residents here and nest only from late spring to early summer. Once the chicks fly away, the nest is generally deserted. Only at that point is it OK to return to your usual gardening activities.
Educate others.
Honestly, so many people don’t even seem to acknowledge how small these nests are. That’s why posts like this one on Reddit go viral in the spring each year. Share the knowledge, especially with your pruning neighbors.
Why These Little Birds Need Big Protection
Let’s take a minute to celebrate just how amazing hummingbirds are. Hummingbirds can flap their wings 80 times per second. They migrate hundreds — sometimes thousands — of miles. And they do it all fueled on nectar and small insects. I mean, how hardcore is that?
But they’re also vulnerable. Hummingbird populations have suffered from habitat loss, pesticide use and climate change. That’s part of what makes every nest and potential nesting site so fiercely protected — every new chick counts.
Warning Signs You Have Hummingbirds Nearby
Unsure if you have hummingbirds nesting in your yard? Here are a few signs:
You spot a small bird flitting around flowers or feeders (duh).
They zip in some fast, jerky movements, chirping or buzzing by your ear.
You see little cup-like nests on tree branches, wires, or even hanging plants.
Hummingbird nests are built by female hummingbirds only. No help from the dudes. And after she lays the eggs she’ll sit on them for roughly two weeks, until they hatch. Then she will hang out with the chicks for another 2-3 weeks until they are ready to take flight. And all with never-ending feeding. Respect.
Want to Help Even More? Here’s What You Can Do
Hang a hummingbird feeder, but clean it regularly. Moldy sugar water? No thanks.
Choose native flowers that flower in stages throughout the season so they have a consistent food supply.
Steer clear of pesticides — even organic ones can be harmful.
Put out nesting material like fibrous cotton or safe “nesting balls” made specifically for birds.
Spread the word during pruning season — those little nests are super easy to miss.
Little Homes, Big Responsibility
I know it may not seem like a big deal. But discovering a hummingbird nest in your yard? That’s a real honor. That means you’ve made your garden safe enough for one of nature’s softest and most delicate creatures to rear her brood.
So if you see those jelly bean eggs set into a camouflaged cup of silk and moss — pause. Step back. Smile. And allow the miracle to happen in peace.
Believe me, watching those babies take off is just so satisfying! Much better than a well-manicured bush.
