Can You Keep A Hummingbird As A Pet?

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Do you want a hummingbird as a pet? Many people do, but can you keep one in your home? In this article, we will explore the answer to that question and discuss the basics of taking care of these beautiful birds.

So, can you keep a hummingbird as a pet? The answer is yes – with some preparation and knowledge!

Can You Keep A Hummingbird As A Pet?

Keeping a hummingbird as a pet isn’t something that would be recommended, though some reports have been made of remote instances in which a hummingbird was kept captivated.

Hummingbirds are one of the smallest birds in the world as well as one of the most active. In their natural habitat, they consume a high-calorie diet and make countless journeys every day perching and drinking nectar from dozens of flowers.

Are Hummingbirds Illegal Pets?

ln the United States, it’s illegal to keep a hummingbird as a pet.

In the US, it is illegal to own any native wildlife species without special permits from state agencies and even then, many require the hummingbirds to be used for scientific research.

US Law Regarding Capturing Hummingbirds.

In the United States, capturing a hummingbird is illegal and it can be classified as an act of animal cruelty.

A majority of U.S. states impose fines, jail time, or both for anyone convicted of capturing these small birds.

The penalties drastically vary depending on where you live and how many birds were harmed or illegally captured.

Why Not Keep Hummingbirds As Pets?

Hummingbirds make delightful wild visitors to gardens and backyards but they should not be kept as pets.

Though their natural curiosity may make them appear friendly during regular visits, they can become aggressive during extended close contact with humans because they are territorial creatures.

Keeping a hummingbird in captivity makes it difficult to give it the variety of feedings it needs for its very specific diet and preventive health measures that wild hummingbirds receive from nature.

Difficulty In Keeping Hummingbirds As Pets

Keeping hummingbirds as pets can be more challenging than other pet birds because of their small size and saving energy levels.

Hummingbird owners must provide the correct food, often in the form of sucrose solution or special little bird food from a pet store, to ensure that their birds get sufficient nutrition.

The cage must be designed to accommodate a hummingbird – horizontal space should exceed vertical space, with branches for perching provided.

Temperature control is very important — too hot or too cold and the hummingbird may suffer health consequences.

The Best Alternative To Keeping Hummingbirds As Pets

One of the best alternatives to keeping hummingbirds as pets is to become a bird watcher and observe them in the wild.

Bird watching allows you to appreciate the birds up close without having to worry about taking care of them.

You can view hummingbirds from your backyard or at a local nature sanctuary for an even closer look. All you need is good binoculars and some patience, and you’re all set!

However, if you want tips and help in identifying specific species, joining a local bird-watching club is a great way to learn more about hummingbirds and many other types of birds.

How To Make Nector For Hummingbirds?

Making nectar for hummingbirds is an easy and fun way to attract magical creatures to your backyard.

All you need are a few basic ingredients: four parts water to one part sugar (ideally white cane sugar), boiled, then cooled; never use artificial sweeteners or honey.

Boil the sugar water solution until the sugar is dissolved and let the mixture cool before using.

How To Spend Time With Hummingbirds?

To spend time with these vibrant creatures, it’s best to start by planting flowers they like such as columbines, delphiniums, red buckeyes, coral honeysuckles, and trumpets.

Place the plants strategically close to windows so you can easily watch their zipping from indoors. If you have space for bird feeders on your property, setting some up with nectar or sugar water is sure to draw hummingbirds in.

Hummingbird Migration

During their annual migration, hummingbirds migrate amazing distances, flying an average of 500 miles each way.

can you keep a hummingbird as a pet

Their endurance is truly remarkable; they take flight during the early morning hours when temperatures are cool and the air has more oxygen, flapping their wings up to 80 beats per second to stay in the air!

To fly south for the winter, the bee hummingbird feast on flower nectar to build up a reserve of stored fat for the winter months.

As autumn turns to winter, thousands of hummingbirds make the journey from North America down to Central and South America.

Hummingbird Nutrition Requirements

Hummingbirds require a healthy diet that provides them with high levels of protein, carbohydrates, and fats.

Protein is necessary for their growth and tissue repair, while carbohydrates provide the energy they need to thrive. Fats are essential for regulating body temperature and maintaining feathers.

Popular sources of nutrition for these wild birds include aphid honeydew, tree sap, small live insects like gnats or mosquitos, and spiders. So, feed them just nectar.

Hummingbird Nests In A Flower Garden

Planting a garden is a good way to attract hummingbirds.

Most hummingbirds build nests out of plant fibers, spider webs, and lichen, so be sure to include plenty of sturdy flowering plants in your garden.

Planting abundant flowers throughout the year will allow them to use your garden for food and shelter throughout their migration season.

Keep A Hummingbird Indoors With A Permit

You can keep baby hummingbirds indoors for educational purposes but you must have the proper permits.

It’s important to be aware of the state, federal, and international regulations before trying to own or keep a hummingbird as a pet.

Additionally, a permit must be acquired from your local wildlife office and your backyard will need to be outfitted with specialized food, fresh water, and nest boxes that would replicate the conditions they would find outdoors.

Environmental temperatures should also be taken into consideration before bringing a hummingbird into any indoor setting.

Hummingbird Taming

In recent years, there has been a growing trend of taming hummingbirds, allowing people to get an even closer look at these fascinating creatures.

Through careful training and dedication, anyone can tame a hummingbird.

As the bond between trainer and hummingbird grows, more complex interactions can take place such as feeding from the trainer’s hand and even flying around with them.

Keeping Migratory Birds As Pets

Keeping migratory birds as pets is a rewarding and stimulating experience that can provide joy to both you and your feathered companion.

can you keep a hummingbird as a pet

When done properly, this practice respects the natural behavior of these wild creatures, offering them a space to explore freedom and build trust with their normal human beings.

Doing in-depth research about the best bird for your lifestyle, budget, preferences, and home environment is critical; different species require different nutrition and housing requirements.

What Is The Migratory Bird Treaty Act?

The Migratory Bird Act is a federal law that was created in 1918 to protect certain species of birds from hunting and trapping on the U.S., Canadian, and Mexican borders.

The legislation makes it illegal to pursue or own migratory birds without a permit, or cause them to harm in any way.

The Act encompasses all species considered “migratory non-game birds” and has been instrumental in allowing many of these species to flourish over the past century.

can you keep a hummingbird as a pet

How Do Take Care Of Your Pet Hummingbird?

Taking care of a pet hummingbird can be a rewarding experience.

Providing your delicate birds with plenty of fresh food, water and perches is essential for their health and happiness. Hummingbirds often enjoy varied foods such as sugar water, fruit juice, and mealworms.

However, it’s important to use specialized nectar mixes available at pet shops as they contain essential minerals and vitamins that are necessary for the hummingbird’s special diet.

Additionally, because they’re small birds they may need extra protection from predators or bad weather to stay safe and sound.

Dawn Caffrey

Dawn Caffrey

Hummingbirds just make me happy - in fact, I read somewhere that they represent happiness in Native American totems.
Let me tell you what I found about feeders from treating the hummingbirds in my back yard.

About Me

Hummingbirds just make me happy – in fact, I read somewhere that they represent happiness in Native American totems.
Let me tell you what I found about feeders from treating the hummingbirds in my back yard.

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