5 best nests: Images reveal innovative bird homes

Best Nest by Nina Pullano Updated: Feb. 20, 2024 Originally Published: July 7, 2020

Tailorbirds Genus Orthotomus Shutterstock

Using its beak, the tailorbird pulls plant fibers and insect silk through tiny holes in leaves — like a needle and thread — stitching them into a nest.

Building time : About one month Biggest perk: Leaves help the nest camouflage in greenery Fun fact: Commonly live in urban gardens

Montezuma Oropendola Psarocolius montezuma

This bird also weaves. Its specialty is creating hanging sack-like nests from branches.

Building time: 10 days Biggest perk : Wasp-looking nest keeps predators away Fun fact : Oropendolas are very picky about nesting tree choice Charles J Sharp

Hummingbird Genus Archilochus

Hummingbirds build the tiniest nests of any bird.

Building time : Five to eight weeks Biggest perk : Nest can balance on thin wires, clotheslines, or the top of a cactus Fun fact : Nest is the size of a ping-pong ball

Ovenbird Seiurus aurocapilla

The ovenbird creates a domed nest out of leaves, grass, mud. It resembles an outdoor oven, hence the bird's name.

Building time: About two weeks Biggest perk : Dome shape is extra protective Fun fact : Females line the nest with animal hair

White-nest Swiftlet Aerodramus fuciphagus

Nests made out of dry saliva can attach directly to walls and other surfaces.

Building time: 30 days Biggest perk: Versatile design means nests can be built anywhere Fun fact: The nests are a delicacy, eaten steamed and cooked in bird's nest soup

To learn how to attract birds to your garden, click here .

5 best nests: Images reveal innovative bird homes

These birds build nests that dazzle through design.

Using its beak, the tailorbird pulls plant fibers and insect silk through tiny holes in leaves — like a needle and thread — stitching them into a nest.

This bird also weaves. Its specialty is creating hanging sack-like nests from branches.

Hummingbirds build the tiniest nests of any bird.

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