Identifying birds by their nests can be a fun and rewarding way to learn more about the avian species in your area. While nest identification does require some knowledge and practice, it’s an accessible hobby for beginners. With a bit of research and observation, you’ll soon be able to match nests to their builders.
What are some things to look for when identifying a bird nest?
Here are some key things to look for when trying to identify a bird nest:
- Location – Where is the nest situated? Different birds nest in different areas. For example, robins nest in trees while barn swallows build nests on human structures.
- Size – The dimensions of the nest can indicate what sized bird built it. Larger birds like hawks build large nests while hummingbird nests are tiny.
- Materials – What is the nest constructed from? Materials can include twigs, grass, moss, spider silk, and more. The materials used often correlate to the species.
- Shape – The overall shape and structural design of the nest can provide clues. Cup, sphere, platform, and pendant shaped nests are common shapes.
- Lining – Many birds line their nests. The lining helps cushion eggs and babies. Feathers, fur, soft plant materials are common nest linings.
What locations should I check for nests?
Here are some prime spots to look for bird nests:
- Trees – Search the branches and nooks of trees, especially mature trees that provide more cover.
- Shrubs and bushes – Dense shrubbery is attractive nesting spots for many species.
- Ledges – Check under eaves, awnings, cliff edges, and other overhangs.
- Cavities – Abandoned woodpecker holes and similar natural cavities are popular nest sites.
- Human-made structures – Birds often nest on buildings, bridges, power equipment, and agricultural structures.
- Ground – Some birds nest directly on the ground, such as killdeer and grouse species.
- Marshlands – Check for nests over the water in marshes and wetlands, built in reeds and cattails.
What are some common backyard bird nests I may find?
Here are some typical backyard bird nests you can look for:
American Robin
- Location: Trees, gutters, eaves, ledges
- Shape: Cup
- Materials: Grass, twigs, mud
- Lining: Grass
Chickadee
- Location: Tree cavities
- Shape: Round dome
- Materials: Moss, fur, feathers
- Lining: Soft plant fibers, fur, feathers
House Finch
- Location: Trees, ledges
- Shape: Cup
- Materials: Twigs, stems
- Lining: Grass, feathers
Mourning Dove
- Location: Trees, shrubs, ground
- Shape: Fragile platform
- Materials: Twigs
- Lining: None
American Goldfinch
- Location: Trees, shrubs
- Shape: Cup
- Materials: Grass, feathers, spider silk
- Lining: Thistle down
Eastern Phoebe
- Location: Beam/ledge under roof
- Shape: Cup
- Materials: Mud, grass, moss
- Lining: Feathers, grass
What are some key differences between bird nest types?
There are some notable differences between the nests of various bird families:
Cavity Nesters
- Build nests in holes
- Line nest with soft materials
- Examples: chickadees, woodpeckers
Cup Nesters
- Build an open-top cup shaped nest
- Constructed with variety of materials
- Examples: American robins, finches, mourning doves
Platform Nesters
- Construct a flat nest on a surface
- Minimal structure and lining
- Examples: mourning doves, killdeer
Pendant Nesters
- Build a hanging nest attached at the top
- Examples: orioles, cliff swallows
Ground Nesters
- Nest on bare ground
- May have camouflage elements
- Examples: ostriches, grouse
Burrow Nesters
- Dig burrows in dirt or sand
- Line with vegetation and feathers
- Examples: kingfishers, bank swallows
What are some expert tips for identifying nests?
Here are some tips from bird experts on identifying nests:
- Observe nests from a distance to avoid scaring off birds.
- Use binoculars for a close-up view without disturbing nests.
- Note the location and habitat around the nest for clues.
- Identify local bird species and their breeding seasons.
- Refer to field guides to match nests pictures and descriptions.
- Remember shape, size, materials for identification.
- Look for clues like feathers, eggshell fragments, droppings.
- Be patient, nest identification takes practice.
- Join a local birding group to learn with experienced birders.
- Consider reporting nest locations to citizen science projects.
What precautions should be taken when observing nests?
When observing bird nests, it’s important to take precautions to avoid disturbing the birds:
- Keep your distance, remain quiet, and stay still around nests.
- Avoid prolonged observation periods at nests.
- Never touch or handle nests, eggs, or hatchlings.
- Be aware of your surroundings to minimize damaging vegetation.
- Use appropriate care around fragile ground nests.
- Carefully replace any disturbed items around nests.
- Limit use of flash photography around nest sites.
- Allow birds to acclimate to your presence before observing.
- Avoid nest locations during extreme weather or breeding seasons.
- Do not report active nest locations on public media.
Conclusion
Identifying birds by their nests takes attentive observation, research, and care. But the effort provides a rewarding way to learn about the bird species sharing our landscapes. With a bit of practice, the colors, shapes, locations and details of different nest structures will reveal their avian architects. Soon you’ll delight in discovering nests and being able to deduce their feathered builders. Just remember to be respectful during your nest investigations and happy birding!