Blog

When it comes to predators near the nest, do birds leave after just one observation? A recent study suggests that simply observing a predator at the nest box one time is not likely to cause abandonment.

It took just four years to answer the decades-old question of “Are predator guards on nest boxes actually helpful?” With the power of citizen science, NestWatchers helped us use the best science available in a national study of cavity-nesting birds.

On a farm in Ohio, middle school students are learning about bluebirds and other cavity-nesting birds by monitoring nests for NestWatch. Kate Anderson told us how Operation Bluebird got its start, and offers a model that other land trusts and conservation organizations can use to introduce youth to birds and citizen science.

How did the bizarre folklore of the “changeling” child first enter European literature? Could an avian reproductive strategy called “brood parasitism” have served as inspiration? This week, we explore the origins of this fanciful myth by examining real-life changelings (i.e., cowbirds and cuckoos).

The North American Bluebird Society recently convened a virtual conference to assess the status of the least-studied bluebird species—the Mountain Bluebird. Four panelists looked at trends and interacted with nest box stewards to try and understand what next steps would help address declines.

Bird nests come in all shapes and sizes, some lasting for a season, while others last years, decades, or even centuries! A recent study on Bearded Vultures takes a fascinating look into their ancient nests that are still in use and the items found within that helped researchers determine how long they’ve been present in the environment. These discoveries highlight a valuable insight into our biocultural history and how we can shape future conservation goals.

Nest box monitors in Florida and Texas have reported some extremely early Eastern Bluebird nests this month. Learn more about this exceptionally rare timing, and what may have triggered these unusual nesting attempts.

Whether for camouflage or parasite reduction, or due to cold weather or nest site competition, not building a nest can certainly have its perks. Meet five species that skip nest building.

She may not be old enough to drive yet, but 14-year-old Katelyn Shelton didn’t let that stop her from creating a nest box trail in her neighborhood. A contributor to NestWatch, Katelyn shares her enthusiasm for birds and conservation as a guest blogger.