Hummingbirds
I have a
nest under my patio of hummingbirds or mom bird and really new babies. I
haven't seen Mom at all yesterday and she wasn't on the nest last
night. The babies are still alive. Is it common for the mom to leave them
overnight when they are so small. I'd say they are probably 1 week
old. Can you give me some information on what I should do? I'd hate
to see them die
Hummingbirds usually build
their nests on the delicate lower limbs of trees. They build new nests
every year, one to two inches in diameter. The nutritional requirements
are tremendous for both the parents and babies. The parents spend
almost all of their time away from the nest collecting nectar to feed
their offspring. At night, the mother is normally found with the young,
for they do not fly well in the dark. They are early risers and are
active well into sunset. If neither parent has returned to the nest
through the night and morning, then something may have happened to
them. Baby hummingbirds are difficult to raise by hand. They require
special nutrients and temperature fluctuations. It is not as simple as
offering periodic sugar water. In our area, rehabilitators specializing
in hummingbirds provide a valuable service for the community. Your
local Veterinarian, SPCA or Humane Society can help you find your
closest avian rehabilitation center.
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