Reproduction

 

A hummingbird nest in Monteverde

During reproduction, hummingbirds typically produce two eggs at a time. Incubation lasts between 14 and 23 days, and the male hummingbird plays no role in the nesting. The nests are built using moss, lichens, twigs, and uniquely, spider webs. The spider webs are very light, elastic, and water proof. The elasticity allows the nests to expand in order to accommodate the growing offspring. In Monteverde, hummingbirds typically nest towards the end of the year when temperatures are relatively colder.