Nesting Birds

The Nest

Birds nests vary enormously - some structures are very complex (like the Songbird) whilst others are simple (using just a few twigs like the Pigeon). Some birds hollow out cavities (such as the Woodpecker) whereas other birds seek out ready made cavities (like most Tits or Starlings).

Construction

In most cases male and female birds share the construction of the nest, for small garden birds this can take about a week. Larger birds can take several weeks. Birds can take weeks months or years to find a site they like, but when they do they often return annually.

Eggs

The colouring, shape and number of eggs varies between different species. Some birds only have one brood whilst others, like Tits or House sparrows quite often have several.

Incubation

Most birds start incubating after the last egg is laid. In some species only the female incubates, whilst in others, the incubation duties are shared with both partners. The length of incubation can vary depending on the size of the bird (how long they sit on the eggs before they hatch). In small garden birds, this is usually from 12 to 15 days whilst for larger birds it can be for up to 20 days. Young garden birds are usually cared for by both parents, and spend between 12 and 20 days in the nest.