If you find yourself with a hummingbird trapped in your garage, it is important to act quickly to get the bird out safely. Hummingbirds are very small and fragile creatures, and they can easily become injured or killed if they are not handled properly. In this article, we will provide you with step-by-step instructions on how to get a hummingbird out of a garage safely and humanely. So, if you are faced with this situation, stay calm, and follow our instructions to help the hummingbird find its way back to nature.
First, you need to assess the situation and make sure that it is safe to enter the garage. If there are any power lines or other hazards present, it is best to call for professional help. Once you are sure that it is safe to enter, open the garage door and allow the bird to escape on its own. If the bird does not leave on its own, you can try to gently shoo it out with a broom or other object. Be careful not to touch the bird, as this could injure it.
If you are unable to get the bird out of the garage on your own, you can call for professional help. A wildlife rehabilitator will be able to safely capture and release the bird. However, if you do not have access to professional help, there are a few things you can do to make the bird more comfortable until help arrives. Place a small bowl of water in the garage, and cover the windows with a towel or blanket to create a dark and quiet environment. This will help to reduce the bird’s stress levels and make it more likely to survive until help arrives.
Identify the Entry Point
The first step in getting a hummingbird out of your garage is to identify the entry point. To do this, you need to observe the hummingbird’s behavior and look for any small openings or cracks in the garage structure. The bird may have entered through a small hole near the roofline, a broken window seal, or a gap around a door or pipe. Pay close attention to areas where the hummingbird seems to be hovering or flying near.
Once you have identified the entry point, you can take steps to seal it up and prevent the hummingbird from re-entering. This may involve patching holes, replacing damaged seals, or installing door sweeps or weatherstripping.
Here is a table with some common entry points and how to seal them:
| Entry Point | How to Seal |
|---|---|
| Small holes near roofline | Patch with caulk or expanding foam |
| Broken window seal | Replace the seal or use weatherstripping |
| Gap around door or pipe | Install door sweeps or weatherstripping |
Immobilize the Hummingbird
1. Gently Gather the Hummingbird
Wear soft gloves and approach the hummingbird slowly and calmly. Using one hand, carefully cup the hummingbird’s head and body, avoiding any pressure. Secure the bird gently but firmly, keeping its head and wings immobile.
2. Wrap the Hummingbird Securely
Use a soft cloth or paper towel to wrap the hummingbird snugly, ensuring its wings and head are covered. This will help prevent the bird from flapping or pecking and keep it calm. Hold the wrapped hummingbird in one hand, keeping it close to your body to provide warmth and comfort.
3. Immobilize the Hummingbird’s Feet
Method 1: Soft Material
- Gather a small piece of soft material, such as a gauze pad or fabric scrap.
- Gently wrap the material around the hummingbird’s feet, securing it with a loose knot.
- Ensure the material is tight enough to immobilize the feet but not so tight as to cause pain or discomfort.
Method 2: Non-Toxic Adhesive
- Apply a small amount of non-toxic adhesive, such as glue stick or clear tape, to a flat surface.
- Carefully roll the hummingbird’s feet over the adhesive, immobilizing them.
- Avoid getting adhesive on the bird’s body or wings.
Method 3: Elastic Band
- Secure a small elastic band around the hummingbird’s feet.
- Position the elastic band gently but firmly enough to prevent the bird from kicking or flapping.
- Ensure the elastic band is not too tight and does not restrict the bird’s circulation.
Gently Guide it Out
Once the hummingbird has calmed down, you can gently guide it out of the garage:
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Open a Door or Window
Open the garage door or a window that will allow the hummingbird to fly out.
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Turn On a Soft Light
If the garage is dark, turn on a soft light in the direction of the open door or window. This will help the hummingbird see where to go.
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Block Other Exit Points
Use towels or pieces of cardboard to block other possible exit points, such as the opposite door or open shelves. This will encourage the hummingbird to head towards the open door or window.
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Use a Net or Cage
If the hummingbird is still reluctant to leave or if you have difficulty coaxing it towards the open door, you can carefully use a net or cage to capture it. Cover the opening of the net or cage with a cloth to keep the hummingbird calm. Once captured, gently carry the hummingbird outside and release it.
Type Material Size Net Lightweight mesh fabric Small enough to fit in the garage but large enough to catch the hummingbird Cage Wire or mesh Small and portable, with a door that can be easily opened
Create a Dark and Quiet Escape Route
To encourage the hummingbird to leave the garage on its own, create a dark and quiet escape route. Close all windows and doors except for one, which should be left slightly ajar. The hummingbird will naturally be drawn to the light and will instinctively fly towards the open door.
Once the hummingbird has exited the garage, make sure to close the door completely to prevent it from re-entering. If the hummingbird does not leave on its own, you can try gently guiding it out with a soft cloth or a rolled-up newspaper.
Tips for Creating a Dark and Quiet Escape Route:
- Close all windows and doors except for one.
- Leave the remaining door slightly ajar.
- Turn off all lights in the garage.
- Avoid making loud noises or sudden movements.
- Be patient and allow the hummingbird to leave on its own.
Additional Tips:
| Tip | Description |
|—|—|
| Use a flashlight | If the garage is too dark, use a flashlight to illuminate the escape route. Be sure to point the flashlight away from the hummingbird. |
| Place a feeder outside the open door | This will provide the hummingbird with a safe place to land and feed once it has exited the garage. |
| Keep pets away | Pets can startle or frighten the hummingbird, making it more difficult to escape. |
Leave Sugar Water Nearby to Attract it
Place a feeder filled with sugar water near the garage door or an open window. The sweet nectar will entice the hummingbird and encourage it to leave the garage. To make sugar water, mix 1 part granulated sugar with 4 parts water. Avoid using honey or artificial sweeteners, as they can be harmful to hummingbirds.
Additional Tips for Attracting Hummingbirds
| Tip | Description |
|---|---|
|
Place the feeder in a sunny location. |
Hummingbirds are attracted to sunlight. |
|
Use a red feeder. |
Hummingbirds are drawn to the color red. |
|
Keep the feeder clean. |
Mold and bacteria can deter hummingbirds. |
Consider Using a Net
A soft, mesh net can be a gentle and effective tool for catching a hummingbird without harming it. Gently approach the bird and attempt to cover it with the net. Be cautious not to squeeze or injure the bird. When the hummingbird is inside the net, carefully release it outdoors by opening the net near a window or door.
Safety Precautions When Using a Net:
| Do’s | Don’ts |
|---|---|
|
|
Avoid Using Aggressive Methods
Hummingbirds are delicate creatures, and using aggressive methods to remove them from a garage can be harmful or even fatal. Avoid the following tactics:
- Do not swat at or try to catch the hummingbird. This can cause injury or stress to the bird.
- Do not use a vacuum cleaner or other suction device. The hummingbird’s tiny body can be easily damaged by the suction.
- Do not use chemical repellents. These chemicals can be toxic to hummingbirds and other animals.
- Do not use loud noises or bright lights. These can startle the hummingbird and cause it to fly erratically, potentially injuring itself.
- Do not block the hummingbird’s exit. If the hummingbird cannot find a way out of the garage, it may become trapped and die.
- Do not try to feed the hummingbird. Hummingbirds have specialized feeding habits and should not be fed by humans.
- Do not attempt to handle the hummingbird. Hummingbirds are very fragile and can be easily injured or killed if handled improperly.
Alternative Methods for Removing a Hummingbird from a Garage
| Method | Description |
|---|---|
| Open a window or door. | This provides the hummingbird with a clear path to escape. |
| Place a bright light near an open window or door. | Hummingbirds are attracted to light and will fly towards it. |
| Use a hummingbird feeder. | Place a feeder filled with sugar water outside an open window or door. |
Seal Off Entry Points to Prevent Recurrence
To prevent hummingbirds from re-entering your garage, it’s crucial to seal off all potential entry points. Here’s how to do it effectively:
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Inspect for Gaps and Holes:
Thoroughly inspect your garage exterior for any gaps, holes, or cracks around windows, doors, vents, or any other openings. Even small openings can provide access to hummingbirds.
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Seal with Caulk or Foam:
Once you’ve identified the entry points, use caulk or expandable foam to seal them completely. Apply the sealant liberally to fill all gaps and crevices, ensuring no spaces are left for hummingbirds to sneak through.
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Use Weatherstripping:
For doors and windows, install weatherstripping around the edges to create a tight seal. Choose weatherstripping with a flexible material like rubber or silicone, which will conform to uneven surfaces and effectively block entry.
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Cover Vents with Mesh:
If your garage has vents, cover them with fine mesh screens to prevent hummingbirds from entering while still allowing ventilation. Secure the mesh securely with tape or screws to prevent gaps.
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Trim Overgrown Bushes and Trees:
Overgrown vegetation near your garage can provide easy access for hummingbirds. Trim bushes and trees back from your garage walls to eliminate potential hiding spots and make it more difficult for birds to reach entry points.
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Close Doors and Windows Regularly:
Make it a habit to close your garage door and windows immediately after use. This will prevent hummingbirds from taking advantage of any gaps while you’re not in the garage.
| Entry Point | Sealing Method |
|---|---|
| Windows | Caulk or weatherstripping |
| Doors | Caulk or weatherstripping |
| Vents | Mesh screens |
| Gaps and holes | Caulk or expandable foam |
| Overgrown vegetation | Trim away from garage |
How To Get A Hummingbird Out Of A Garage
Hummingbirds are tiny, delicate creatures that can easily become trapped in a garage. If you find a hummingbird in your garage, it is important to act quickly to help it escape.
Here are some steps you can take to get a hummingbird out of a garage:
- Open the garage door. This will give the hummingbird a clear path to escape.
- Turn off the lights. Hummingbirds are attracted to light, so turning off the lights will make it easier for them to find their way out.
- Create a draft. Open a window or door on the opposite side of the garage from where the hummingbird is located. This will create a draft that will help the hummingbird fly out.
- Use a net. If you are unable to get the hummingbird out of the garage on your own, you can use a net to catch it. Be careful not to harm the hummingbird.
- Release the hummingbird. Once you have caught the hummingbird, release it outside in a safe location.
People Also Ask
How do I know if a hummingbird is trapped in my garage?
If you see a hummingbird flying around in your garage, it is likely that it is trapped. Hummingbirds are not able to fly in enclosed spaces, so if they get into your garage, they will not be able to get out on their own.
What should I do if I find a hummingbird trapped in my garage?
If you find a hummingbird trapped in your garage, follow the steps outlined above to help it escape. If you are unable to get the hummingbird out of the garage on your own, you can contact a local wildlife rehabilitator for assistance.
How can I prevent hummingbirds from getting into my garage?
There are a few things you can do to prevent hummingbirds from getting into your garage:
- Keep your garage door closed when you are not using it.
- Install a screen on your garage door.
- Plant flowers around your garage to attract hummingbirds away from the door.
