Blue-Gray Gnatcatcher Nest vs. Hummingbird Nest

Found a small, cup-shaped nest on the ground? It's likely from a blue-gray gnatcatcher, not a hummingbird. Though similar in size, there are key differences.

Distinguishing Features

• Gnatcatcher nest: Deeper cup, heavily decorated with lichens and spider silk on the exterior, often placed on a horizontal branch fork 10-40 feet up.
• Hummingbird nest: Shallower, more elastic (stretches as young grow), heavily camouflaged with lichens but typically smaller and more compact, often on a slender, descending branch.

What to Do

If the nest is on the ground after a storm, it's usually abandoned. You can leave it for birds to recycle materials or dispose of it. Do not attempt to put it back—parents will not return to a disturbed nest.

Photos

Gnatcatcher nest

Gnatcatcher nest

Hummingbird nest

Both species are protected by the Migratory Bird Treaty Act; enjoy observing them from a distance.