Nesting Habits of Birds

Nesting Habits of Birds

Have you ever wondered where birds make their nests? 
Spring is at its fullest in Pinedale, Wyoming. We can hear it the moment we step out of our door. All the bird calls. Most of them come here for the breeding season.

Wyoming has 452 species of birds, including raptors, grouse, ducks, swallows, and other species. 

Tree swallows nesting

Every bird has different specifications for building its nest, and all are picky about the location. Some are well camouflaged, and others are in plain sight. Nest structures vary. On the one hand, the kingfishers and violet swallows make burrows in sandy banks where they keep their eggs out of sight.  On the other hand, you can not miss Eagles, Owls, and Ospreys’ nests. 

Bald Eagle nest

The materials they use to make their nests vary as much as the birds. Some use cottonwood seeds, while others build homes with grass and sticks. Whatever material they use, one can’t deny that they are great builders and architects. 


bird nest

They all use them for one purpose: to incubate their eggs. They protect the eggs from the weather and predators. The right amount of insulation varies from bird to bird. In some species, like Mountain Bluebirds, the females are in charge of the building process, while in others, it is a team effort. In other species of birds, like the house wren, the male is in charge of building the nest to impress the female. When the female adds her touches of home-warming, she accepts the male.  


mountain bluebird building its nest

The most incredible thing is that nobody teaches them how to build their nests. Their instinct kicks in, and they find a way to do it. Some are neatly built, while others seem to be a mess. 
No matter what materials or where they choose to build their nests, birds are great reminders that nature is not that far away from our homes. We only need to open our doors, ears, and hearts to connect with nature. 

Tree swallow coming out of its nest



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