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How to Identify Very Shallow Bird Nests

Birding, also known as birdwatching, is a recreational activity that involves the observation and identification of common and rare bird species for aesthetic enjoyment. Although some bird peepers choose to remain in one location, others use tracking skills and their knowledge of birds to select vantage points most likely to permit views of particular species. One skill that is helpful when tracking birds is the ability to identify nests and burrows.

Things You'll Need

Ruler
Sketchpad
Pencil
Camera
Bird nest guidebook

Instructions

- 1
  Measure the nest with a ruler. Use the imperial and metric system if you plan to share your findings with fellow hobbyists in other regions.
- 2
  Write down salient measurements, such as the diameter of the outer edge, diameter of the inner lip, width at widest and narrowest point, height and depth of the cup. Make notes in the margin of your sketchbook using clear annotations to identify specific measurements, for example: 5 inches wide at the widest point, 4 inches high total, 3 inches deep from lip to bed.
- 3
  Describe the shape of the nest, such as shallow and flat like a plate with a high rim.
- 4
  List materials used to build the nest; this helps identify the bird and can provide interesting information on ways that birds sometimes make use of human refuse.
- 5
  Look closely using the zoom feature on the camera to find eggs, egg shells, feathers, hatchlings, birds or other features that can aid in identification.
- 6
  Note the location and position of the nest, for example: nestled in the roots of a tree on the ground near the fence in my back yard. Be as descriptive as possible.
- 7
  Photograph the nest.
- 8
  Use a field guide to narrow down the possible builders by using information on the region and physical characteristics, for example: A duck nest differs from an owl nest, namely in size, placement and materials.

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