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Bird Nests and Breeding

A round globular nest made of twigs and dry grasses with a hole for entry built in a cactus in a desert landscape.
Appreciate These Magnificent Avian Nests—and the Next One You Find in the Field
March 06, 2023 — Birds build an amazing variety of nest types, and each construction is a work of art.
A chickadee perched on a pine branch with a blue background.
In the Rockies, Human Activity Paves the Way for a Hybrid Bird Boom
January 12, 2023 — Black-capped and Mountain Chickadees mate more often than previously believed, research shows—especially where people disturb their habitat.
Bird Science
These Early Nesters Get a Head Start on Breeding Season
March 17, 2022 — Not every bird species waits for spring to lay eggs and raise chicks.
A New Stunning Nest Guide Celebrates a Different Aspect of Birding
November 23, 2021 — The Peterson series displays the variety in crafted structures of a whopping 650 species. Co-author David Moskowitz shares insights from the field.
Field Guides
Do Yourself a Favor This Spring: Go See the American Woodcock’s ‘Sky Dance’
March 26, 2021 — Timberdoodles have one of the wildest mating rituals among North American birds, and you should definitely check it out. Here’s how.
Birding Advice
How Orioles Build Those Incredible Hanging Nests
August 06, 2019 — The delicate-looking structures are stronger than they seem, and come in a variety of shapes and materials.
10 Outrageous Ways Birds Dance to Impress Their Mates
February 14, 2019 — Nature has way better moves than the Funky Chicken.
Bird Behavior
What's Up With the Weird Mouths of These Finch Chicks?
January 08, 2019 — Coming in many shapes, colors, and sizes, strange mouth markings might aid in chick survival.
Bird Questions and Facts
Is It Okay to Remove Cowbird Eggs From Host Nests?
June 06, 2018 — It can be tempting to interfere with these brood parasites. But there are many reasons—legal and behavioral—to leave tampering to the pros.