     |
Abandoned Nests
Finding abandoned nests in winter is a favorite nature activity of mine. With winter trees bare of leaves, what was hidden is now visible. What we see in winter are the constructions that were strongly built and were able to last into winter. The depressions that were built on the ground and in sand, are all disintegrated by now. Those constructions that remain have survived rain, snow and heavy winds. I enjoy looking for animal architecture. As I go on walks, I adjust my sight of view so that I am looking slightly higher than I normally would. This is how I spot many leaf and stick bundles in trees. Remember to look in:
It is hard to tell what species made a nest of sticks and leaves without eggs or birds in it. Some clusters of leaves were made by squirrels. I like to observe what materials were used. This way I know what materials to offer in nesting season. Putting out materials brings several species to my backyard habitat. What to Observe:
Of all the birds in North America, 77% of the birds in North America make open nests. Many of the rest use holes in trees. These are the birds that will use a bird house that is similar to a cavity in a tree. After locating a nest I like to photograph them, I don't disturb the nests because some of these nests will be used by mice as a den in harsh winter weather. Things to Do:
The book Nature in Winter by Donald and Lillian Stokes has a nice section on identifying or observing abandoned nests. From Abandoned Nests Return to Winter Nature Activities From Abandoned Nests Return to Nature in Winter
|
