5 best nests: Images reveal innovative bird homes

Best Nest by Nina Pullano 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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