While photographing a female Ruby-throated Hummingbird at one of my feeders, I noticed something unusual. A fine strand of spider silk stretched from her beak to the top of her head. This tiny detail immediately caught my attention.
I’ve read about how hummingbirds use spider silk in nest building, but this was the first time I’ve seen a sign of it this close. It’s likely she was collecting the silk for her nest. Then again, it might have been left over from a visit to an old web or a simple brush against a strand. Either way, it gave me a glimpse into the fascinating way these birds construct their nests.
Why Hummingbirds Use Spider Silk
The female Ruby-throated Hummingbird builds the nest entirely on her own. She gathers soft plant fibers, moss, and lichens, then uses spider silk to bind and anchor everything to a branch. The silk’s strength and flexibility help the nest expand as her chicks grow. This unique design keeps the nest secure until the young birds fledge.
A Closer Look at Nesting Behavior
Seeing this bit of spider silk in use reminded me of another close encounter I shared in The Fascinating Tongue of the Ruby-throated Hummingbird, where I documented a detailed moment of this species’ unique feeding behavior. These tiny birds continue to amaze me with their behavior and ingenuity.
Spring is my favorite season for observing nesting birds. Spotting a hummingbird mid-task like this is a rare and rewarding experience. I’ll be watching closely to see if she returns with more silk or chooses a nearby spot to begin her nest.
FAQ
What does spider silk do in hummingbird nests?
Spider silk works like natural glue and elastic. It holds the nest together and lets it stretch as chicks grow.
How does a hummingbird collect spider silk?
Female hummingbirds gather spider silk by plucking it from webs. They use their beaks to carefully carry it back to the nest site.
Why do only female hummingbirds build nests?
In Ruby-throated Hummingbirds, the female handles all aspects of nesting, from construction to feeding and raising the young.
Where do hummingbirds usually build their nests?
They prefer branches in sheltered trees or shrubs, often 10 to 20 feet off the ground, where the nest is camouflaged and safe.
Can spider silk harm a hummingbird?
No, hummingbirds are adapted to handle spider silk safely. It serves as an essential material for building strong, flexible nests.