One reason the nest of the Ruby-throated Hummingbird (Archilochus colubris) is hard to find is because it is so small (above); it is also well camouflaged with an outer layer of lichens. Although it may appear obvious on this naked pine twig, when it contained eggs and young the nest was hidden by pine needles and cones. Several western U.S. hummingbird species build their nests semi-communally and in the open, making them easier to spot. The best way to find a hummer nest is to wait for the female to lead you to it. This may not work, however, since the nest can be up to 1.5km or more from a good feeding area. Among Ruby-throated Hummingbirds , nests may be in hardwoods or evergreens from about one to 20 meters (three to 60 feet) from the ground. Often they are situated in the crotch of in an outer, down-turned branch overhanging water, but there are many exceptions. Some of the western U.S. hummingbirds build frequently in the open on fence rails, porch lights, and other human-made objects. Perhaps the most effective to way to find a nest is to watch a female hummingbird in spring when she is gathering spiderwebs for her nest and then try to follow her to the nesting site.