Hi, this is a Carolina Wren’s nest. Carolina Wrens build a domed-over cave-like nest (their scientific name means “cave dweller”), whereas cardinals build a flat saucer-like nest in a shrub. The eggs do look similar in pattern, but the cardinal eggs are larger. In this case, the location of the nest and the deep cave-like style is diagnostic. Hope this helps, and happy NestWatching!
Hi, this is a Carolina Wren’s nest. Carolina Wrens build a domed-over cave-like nest (their scientific name means “cave dweller”), whereas cardinals build a flat saucer-like nest in a shrub. The eggs do look similar in pattern, but the cardinal eggs are larger. In this case, the location of the nest and the deep cave-like style is diagnostic. Hope this helps, and happy NestWatching!