How Do Birds Choose Where To Nest?

It can be a bit of a mystery as to why birds choose to build a nest where they do. While it is interesting to watch birds come and go from a nest near your window, the presence of their nest can lead to problems with noise and sanitation. However, there are some common factors to be aware of when it comes to figuring out why birds nest in one particular location over another. 

Safety

Unlike most of their predators, birds are able to fly and they use this to their advantage when building nests. This is the reason why you see nests built high up in trees and around the roofs and chimneys of houses and other buildings. It is when bird droppings start to accumulate on your back porch or front walkway that you might consider seeking help to remove the nest. Because bird nests are usually built in elevated locations, it is best to have a professional who specializes in bird control in Waukesha come to remove the nest and implement measures to discourage further nests from being built on your property.  Skedaddle Humane Wildlife Control can safely remove nests and their inhabitants as well as clean up any carcasses and droppings left by nesting birds. Property owners who try to do this themselves run the risk of breaking the eggs or contracting a disease from droppings or carcasses. Skilled technicians can also seal the nook or entry point where the nest was built, if possible, preventing other birds and animals from taking up residence in the future. 

Access to Food

Birds look to build nests in locations with quick and easy access to food, both for themselves and for the baby birds once they hatch. Birds eat seeds, nuts, berries, fruits, vegetables and insects, which make houses that have fruit or vegetable gardens, flowers that attract small insects, or trees that produce nuts particularly appealing spots to build a nest. A large yard with tempting opportunities for birds to dig up worms would also be a desirable location over a house that is surrounded by concrete. Some aquatic bird species such as pelicans and ospreys build nests near a water source like a river or pond for easy access to fish. 

Ability To Hide

While building a nest high above the ground offers protection from predators like snakes and cats, small birds are cognizant of the fact that large vulturous birds such as owls can still reach their nests. For this reason, birds tend to build nests in hidden or difficult-to-reach locations like the inside of a vent or gutter. Birds feel most comfortable with their nests being in tight spots with only one entry point, as this prevents them from having to watch for predators from multiple angles. These spots have another advantage in being warmer and shielded from the wind, which is especially important if you live someplace that gets cool during the nesting season. 

Proximity to Other Safe Locations

Most birds sleep on their nests to provide protection and warmth for the eggs. Once the eggs hatch, however, many species of mothers will sleep in another nearby location while visiting the nest several times per day. This makes houses near large trees or with multiple chimneys, vents and awnings particularly attractive places for birds to build a nest and stay around even after the eggs hatch. Proximity to humans also plays a part in where birds choose to nest, as many species see people as an extra layer of protection from predators. 

Contact Us Today

If you are experiencing problems with birds nesting on your property, contact Skedaddle Humane Wildlife Control today to explore your options.