A Simple Nesting Station for Backyard Birds
Spring is nesting season, and birds are constantly searching for bits of fiber, twigs, and soft materials to build their homes. A simple wire nesting station lets children watch birds gather materials and begin building nests nearby.
Why Birds Need Nesting Materials
Birds build their nests from whatever they can find—grass, twigs, feathers, moss, and plant fibers. In early spring, these materials can be harder to find, especially in tidy yards. Providing safe materials helps birds build sturdy nests and gives children a wonderful opportunity to observe them at work.
Materials
A small wire basket or wire mesh
String or twine
Natural nesting materials
Good nesting materials include:
Dry grass
Small twigs
Moss
Feathers
Pet fur or wool fibers
Small bits of cotton or natural fiber yarn
Avoid synthetic fibers, plastic, or anything sticky.
Making the Nesting Holder
Form a loose ball or basket shape with wire mesh.
Leave the spaces wide enough for birds to pull materials out.
Fill the basket with your nesting materials.
Tie the basket to a tree branch or fence using twine.
Place the station somewhere birds already visit, such as near a feeder or shrub.
Watching the Birds
Children can watch to see which birds visit the nesting station. Some birds will carry away grass or moss one piece at a time. Others may gather several strands before flying off to their nest site.
You may notice certain birds prefer specific materials. This is part of how they build nests suited to their eggs and young.
Homestead Connection
When we care for the land around us, we also care for the creatures that live there. Even a small yard or garden can become a safe place for birds to raise their young.
