The bee hummingbird prefers to nests in adult, leafy Jucaro ("Bucida buceras)" and juvenile Ocuje ("Calophyllum antillanum)" but has been found in other trees. It has been observed that after completion of the nest the eggs are in incubation for 21 days followed by 2 days of hatching and 18 days of care by the mother. The last 4-5 days of care involve the juvenile hummingbirds practicing flight and end with the bee hummingbird leaving the nest to never return. The nests are only used once and then destroyed by rain and other natural forces.