Hummingbirds are fascinating creatures known for their incredible speed and ability to hover in mid-air. These tiny birds are a joy to watch in their natural habitat, but their presence inside buildings can pose a problem.
Whether they’ve been attracted by bright colors, flowers, or have mistaken a window for an open space, having a hummingbird indoors is a situation that needs to be handled with care and consideration for the bird’s well-being.
This blog post will cover everything you need to know about how to get rid of hummingbirds in a building humanely and effectively. We will start by understanding why hummingbirds might enter buildings and identifying signs that one is present.
Next, we will discuss immediate actions to take and provide a step-by-step guide to safely guide the bird outside. Finally, we will cover prevention strategies to avoid future incidents. By following these steps, you can ensure that both the bird and your home remain safe and unharmed.
Why Hummingbirds Might Enter Buildings
Hummingbirds may find their way into buildings for several reasons. One common reason is their attraction to bright colors or flowers, which might lead them to explore indoor spaces if they see something appealing through a window.
The vibrant hues of indoor decorations, such as curtains, furniture, or even potted plants, can mimic the flowers they seek for nectar, enticing them to venture inside. Additionally, hummingbirds are known to mistake windows for open spaces, especially if there are reflections of the sky or greenery.
This optical illusion can be particularly deceiving for these small birds, causing them to fly into a building unintentionally. Once inside, they may become disoriented and have difficulty finding their way back out, as the clear glass that lured them in now acts as an invisible barrier.
Immediate Actions to Take
If you suspect that a hummingbird has made its way into your building, there are several signs to look out for. The most obvious sign is the sight of the bird itself, often near windows as it tries to find an exit.
Hummingbirds are naturally attracted to light and open spaces, so they instinctively head towards windows in an attempt to escape. You may also hear the characteristic humming sound of their wings flapping rapidly.
This distinctive noise is created by their incredibly fast wingbeats, which can reach up to 80 times per second. Additionally, you might notice small feathers or droppings around the area where the bird is trapped.
These tiny feathers can be a telltale sign, as hummingbirds often lose a few while struggling to find their way out. Droppings, although small, are another indicator that a bird has been present for some time. Together, these signs can help you quickly identify and assist a trapped hummingbird, ensuring its safe return to the outdoors.
Guiding the Hummingbird Outside
Open Windows and Doors:
The first and most crucial step in guiding a hummingbird outside is to create clear exit paths. Open as many doors and windows as possible to provide multiple routes for the bird to escape. Ensure that there are no obstacles near these exits that could impede the bird’s flight path.
Removing any furniture, plants, or decorations that might block the bird’s direct route to freedom can significantly increase the chances of a swift and safe exit. Additionally, if the bird has flown into a room with limited exits, try to gently guide it towards a more open area of the house where multiple exit points are available.
Use Visual Cues:
Hummingbirds are attracted to bright colors, so placing brightly colored objects near open windows or doors can help guide them towards the exit. Items such as colorful cloths, flowers, or even pieces of brightly colored paper can serve as effective visual cues.
These vibrant objects can act as beacons, drawing the bird’s attention and encouraging it to move towards the source of color. It’s essential to place these items in a way that they are visible from various angles within the room, ensuring that no matter where the bird is, it can see the guiding cues.
Utilize Natural Light: Sunlight is another powerful tool in guiding a hummingbird outside. Darken other areas of the room by closing blinds or curtains and leave the exit points illuminated with natural light. This will create a clear contrast and help the bird navigate towards the brighter, open space.
Hummingbirds, like many birds, are naturally drawn to light and will instinctively move towards well-lit areas. By strategically using natural light, you can create a visual pathway that leads the bird to safety.
Stay Patient:
Avoid chasing the bird around the room as this will only cause more stress for both you and the bird. Give the bird time to find its way out on its own. It may take a few minutes, but eventually, the bird will discover the exit. During this time, it’s important to remain as calm and quiet as possible.
Loud noises or sudden movements can startle the bird, making it more difficult for it to find its way outside. Trust that with the right conditions and a bit of patience, the hummingbird will safely navigate its way back to the open air.
Preventing Future Incidents
Inspect Your Building for Potential Entry Points:
To prevent future incidents of hummingbirds entering your building, it’s crucial to identify and seal potential entry points. Begin by conducting a thorough inspection of your home, paying close attention to any gaps, cracks, or openings where birds could potentially gain access.
Areas around windows, doors, vents, and chimneys are particularly vulnerable and should be meticulously examined. Even small openings can serve as entry points for these tiny birds.
Consider using caulk or weather-stripping to seal any gaps, and ensure that vents and chimneys are covered with appropriate mesh or screens. Regular maintenance checks can help you stay ahead of any new potential entry points that may develop over time.
Use Screens on Windows and Doors:
Installing screens on windows and doors is an effective way to keep hummingbirds and other birds from entering your building. Screens provide a barrier that allows you to keep windows and doors open for ventilation without risking bird entry.
This is especially important during nesting seasons when birds are more active and likely to be searching for new places to nest.
High-quality, durable screens are recommended, as they will withstand the elements and provide long-term protection. Additionally, consider using screen doors for patio and balcony entrances to further reduce the risk of bird entry.
Keep Indoor Plants Away from Entrances:
If you have indoor plants, try to keep them away from entrances where birds might be attracted. Hummingbirds are drawn to flowers and greenery, so placing plants near doors and windows can increase the likelihood of them entering your building.
Instead, position plants in areas that are less visible from the outside. This not only helps in preventing hummingbirds from being lured inside but also ensures that your indoor plants thrive in a more controlled environment.
If you enjoy having plants near your windows, opt for non-flowering varieties that are less likely to attract hummingbirds. Additionally, consider using window decals or stickers to deter birds from flying into the glass, which can be a common issue with reflective surfaces.
Conclusion
Dealing with a hummingbird inside a building can be a delicate situation, but by following the steps outlined in this post, you can safely and humanely guide the bird back outside. Remember to remain calm, create clear exit paths, and use visual and natural light cues to help the bird navigate. Additionally, taking preventive measures such as inspecting your building for entry points, using screens, and positioning plants wisely can reduce the chances of future incidents.
By treating hummingbirds and all wildlife with respect and care, we can coexist peacefully and enjoy the beauty that these creatures bring to our lives. If you found this post helpful, please share it with others who might benefit from this information. Together, we can ensure the safety and well being of both our homes and the wildlife that visits us.
