12/06/2025
Whenever I see a bird species for the first time, observe an interesting behavior, or notice a peculiar morphological feature, I feel compelled to learn more about the bird I am seeing.
Recently, during a visit to my parents’ home in the state of Veracruz, Mexico, I was doing some yard work when I saw a hummingbird rapidly take off from a small macadamia nut tree. It was the second time I had seen her do that from the same tree.
I got a little closer and discovered a beautifully made nest with two tiny white eggs inside. What struck me most about the nest was the lichen skillfully attached to its surface.
After researching the use of lichen in hummingbird nests, here’s what I found:
• Most hummingbird species—and even other birds, such as the Blue-gray Gnatcatcher (Polioptila caerulea)—use lichen to adorn their nests.
• Lichen-covered nests are thought to mimic knots or swellings on tree branches.
• Light-colored lichen may provide camouflage, helping the nest blend into the background.
• Lichen adds firmness and consistency to the nest while helping to keep out moisture.
• It was once believed that birds glued the lichen to the nest with saliva, but it is actually spider or caterpillar silk that binds the lichen to the nest and the nest to the branch.
• There is a hypothesis suggesting that birds may play a role in dispersing lichens.
Birds can teach and inspire us to be skillful designers—meeting our needs while contributing positively to the web of life.
📍 Photo taken on the slopes of Cofre de Perote Volcano, Veracruz.
🕊 Species: Berylline Hummingbird (Saucerottia beryllina)
