Bird Watching: The Nesting Cycle

Every year, more than 700 bird species complete their nesting cycle in North America. Many are in or near our backyards, parks, fields, woodlots, golf courses, and cemeteries. Birds nest anywhere there is food, water, shelter, and a place to hide from predators. With patience, you can watch them as they build their nests and prepare to raise their young.

About Nests and Nesting

Finding a Place to Nest

Building a Nest

Laying Eggs

Incubating Eggs

Invite Birds Into Your Neighborhood—Add a Nest Box!

Native Americans may have been the first to provide nest boxes for birds when they hung dry gourds to encourage bluebirds to nest near their settlements. The gourds were offered simply because people wanted the pleasure of the bluebirds' company. Here's how to request the company of birds in your neighborhood!

Invite Birds into Your Neighborhood

Finding a Good Spot for a Nest Box

Choosing Good Nest Boxes

Installing Nest Boxes

Creating Cover and Shelter with a Brush Pile

Feeding Birds in Spring

Create Your  Own Backyard Field Guide!

Sketching (or photographing) and writing about the birds in your backyard will help you recognize and remember your wild neighbors!

Creating A Backyard Field Guide

Field Guide to My Wild Neighbors

Making Field Sketches for your Backyard Field Guide