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Watching a hummingbird nest is a treat for any backyard birder, but the Duncraft Hummingbird Nester not only helps attract nesting hummingbirds, but can also be positioned in a convenient position for easier observation and careful nest monitoring. With the added bonuses of nesting material and a leaf accent for a natural touch, this unique bird house can be a delightful home for some of the most desirable backyard residents.

Pros

• Eco-friendly recycled materials and durable construction ensure years of effective, easy use.
• Includes natural cotton nesting material for hummingbirds to use either for initial nest construction or ongoing repair and augmentation while the nest is in use.
• Springs provide anchors for sturdy but flexible nest building.

Cons

• Roof is too short to provide shade to the nest but will help shelter the provided nesting material to keep it clean and suitable.

Description

• Name: Duncraft Hummingbird Nester (Item #4221)
• Manufacturer: Duncraft
• House Style: Platform
• Height: 6 inches (15.2 cm) at highest point of roof
• Width: 4.25 inches (10.8 cm)
• Depth: 4.75 inches (12.1 cm) not including leaf accents
• Entrance Hole Diameter: N/A
• Construction: Recycled plastic with galvanized metal hardware and fabric leaf accents
• Intended Birds: Hummingbirds
• Price: $29.95 (via Duncraft; prices from other retailers may vary)

Review - Duncraft Hummingbird Nester

It can be hard to attract nesting hummingbirds, but providing a convenient, easy place for a safe, sheltered nest is a great way to entice them, and the Duncraft Hummingbird Nester can do just that.

Made from recycled plastic with durable construction, this small nesting platform is ideal for hummingbirds and has a variety of features attractive to these flying jewels. The rear wall of the platform holds all natural cotton nesting material behind a mesh grid; while it may seem to be only a small amount, it is a generous quantity considering the small size of a hummingbird nest. The mesh can be unscrewed to refill or refresh the nesting material, but is not recommended to do this while the nesting platform is occupied.

A small roof shelters the rear 1.5 inches (3.8 cm) of the platform. While this is sufficient to shelter the nesting material from excess moisture, it will not provide shelter to the nest itself, but nor will it interfere with the female hummingbird flying in to tend her nest. The platform base features a depression with a 1.5 inch diameter for the bottom of the nest, and a drainage hole is included. Two small metal springs, one on either side of the base depression, are intended to help support the vertical construction of the nest cup but are flexible enough to expand as needed while the nestlings grow without restricting their movements.

A plastic and fabric trio of leaves extends from the front of the platform, providing a natural accent to help camouflage the nest area. This can also serve as a perch for the adult hummingbird.

Two sturdy screws are included to mount the house, and instructions are also provided with tips for how to position the Duncraft Hummingbird Nester in order to make it more attractive to hummingbirds. Ideally, the nesting platform should be placed in a sheltered, shaded location secure from hummingbird predators. A food source nearby can attract hummingbirds to the area, but a feeder should not be too close to the nesting platform or else the area will be too busy with different hummingbirds to make a nesting female feel secure. The house should also be placed away from busy areas and window reflections so the female hummingbird is not unduly stressed.

The recycled plastic construction of the nester is thick and durable for many years of use. It will not warp, fade or stain, and can be easily cleaned after the nesting season has finished and the hummingbirds have moved on. While a mature female will return to the same nesting area each year and may rebuild on the remains of an old nest, it is best to remove the nest to eliminate any possibility of mites, insects or other contamination that could be detrimental to future nestlings. The plastic base and back of the platform can easily be rinsed with a weak bleach solution to clean and sterilize the area.

Hummingbirds may nest in unusual places, but providing them a dedicated nesting platform such as the Duncraft Hummingbird Nester can entice them to take up residence in a safe, sheltered location. With a supply of nesting material at hand and sturdy springs to help support the nest, this nester is an innovative and convenient option for hummingbird families and a delightful backyard accessory for any hummingbird lover.



Disclosure: Review samples were provided by the manufacturer. For more information, please see our Ethics Policy.