Bird watching is a popular hobby for many people. When looking for birds, we often try to identify them by their songs, colors, and behaviors. However, birds can also be identified by their eggs. Bird eggs come in a variety of shapes, sizes, colors, and patterns. But which bird eggs are the most popular and sought after by birders and collectors? Let’s take a look at some of the most popular bird eggs that are commonly found.
Robin Eggs
One of the most popular and recognizable bird eggs are robin eggs. Robins are common songbirds found throughout North America. The female robin lays 3-5 light blue eggs in each clutch. The blue color helps camouflage the eggs in the nest. Robin eggs are one of the most commonly collected bird eggs due to robins being a widespread and familiar bird. Their beautiful blue eggs are distinct and stand out from other eggs. Many birders enjoy finding robin nests and observing their eggs.
Owl Eggs
Owls produce some of the most sought after eggs among birders and collectors. There are over 200 owl species worldwide, with diverse egg sizes, shapes, and colors. Some popular owl egg species include:
- Barn Owl – White, elongated eggs laid in clutch of 4-7.
- Great Horned Owl – Dull white, rounded eggs laid in clutch of 2-3.
- Snowy Owl – White eggs sometimes with brown spots laid in clutch of 3-11.
- Burrowing Owl – White, round eggs laid in clutch of 6-11.
Owls nest in tree cavities, nest boxes, burrows, and other hidden locations. Finding owl eggs in the wild is uncommon and considered a special treat for birders. Owl eggs are treasured for their unique shapes, varied sizes, and cryptic nature.
Hummingbird Eggs
Hummingbird eggs are tiny and delicate. They are some of the smallest bird eggs in the world. Hummingbirds build tiny, cup-shaped nests out of plants, spiderwebs, and feathers. Their eggs are approximately the size of a jellybean. Most hummingbird eggs are white, while some have light brown speckles or blotches. A female hummingbird lays only 2 pea-sized eggs per clutch. Hummingbird nests are found on tree branches, wires, or cacti in the wild. Their incredibly small eggs are popular and fascinating to observe in such a petite nest.
Waterfowl Eggs
From ducks and geese to swans and loons, waterfowl produce some of the most elaborately-colored and patterned bird eggs. Some examples include:
- Mallard Duck – Pale green eggs laid in clutch of 9-13.
- Canada Goose – White eggs laid in clutch of 4-8.
- Mute Swan – Creamy white eggs laid in clutch of 2-10.
- Common Loon – Olive green eggs with brown spots laid in clutch of 2.
Waterfowl nest near water sources like ponds, lakes, marshes, and rivers. Their eggs can be challenging to find since the females cover them with down feathers for insulation and camouflage. When discovered, their eggs are prized for their various shapes, sizes, and intricate patterns.
Finch Eggs
The eggs of many finch species are popular with birders and collectors. Finches build cup-shaped nests in trees, shrubs, or cavities. Some finches with sought after eggs include:
- American Goldfinch – Pale blue eggs laid in clutch of 3-6.
- Purple Finch – Pale blue eggs with brown spots laid in clutch of 4-5.
- House Finch – Pale blue eggs laid in clutch of 3-6.
- Cassin’s Finch – Pale blue eggs with brown streaks laid in clutch of 3-6.
Finch eggs vary from plain to speckled or streaked. Their petite eggs and nests make for charming finds for bird enthusiasts. The diversity of finch species produces an array of pretty eggs to appreciate.
Goose Eggs
Goose eggs are among the largest bird eggs out there. Their large size makes them popular finds for collectors and birding enthusiasts. Some of the largest goose eggs come from:
- Emperor Goose – Creamy white eggs up to 4.5 inches long and 3 inches wide.
- Snow Goose – White eggs up to 4 inches long and 2.75 inches wide.
- Canada Goose – White eggs up to 3.5 inches long and 2.5 inches wide.
- Laughing Goose – White eggs up to 3 inches long and 2 inches wide.
Goose eggs can feed up to eight people when cooked! Their exceptional size makes them prized acquisitions for any egg collection.
Chicken Eggs
The eggs most familiar to many people are chicken eggs. Chicken eggs are ubiquitous at grocery stores and farms. But wild bird eggs enthusiasts also value finding chicken breeds in the wilderness. Older breed chickens that have become feral can be found living off the land in rural areas. Their egg colors vary from white to tinted shades of brown, blue, or green. Chicken eggs display a wide variety of size, color, and pattern. Beautiful, dark speckled eggs from heritage hens are especially popular finds.
Pigeon and Dove Eggs
Pigeons and doves produce simple, white eggs that are often found by birders. Feral Rock Pigeons are widespread city dwellers whose nests can be discovered on building ledges. Mourning Doves nest in trees and thickets, laying white eggs in flimsy stick platforms. Band-tailed Pigeons nest in trees, laying a single white egg. Finding dove eggs offers a special look into the reproductive biology of these common yet charming birds.
Gamebird Eggs
Upland gamebirds like quail, pheasant, grouse, and turkey all produce unique and popular eggs among birders. Their nests can be difficult to locate in dense grasslands and woodlands, making their eggs special finds. A few examples include:
- Northern Bobwhite Quail – White eggs with brown speckles laid in clutch of 12-16.
- Ring-necked Pheasant – Olive colored eggs laid in clutch of 8-12.
- Ruffed Grouse – Light brown eggs laid in clutch of 8-14.
- Wild Turkey – Tan eggs with brown spots laid in clutch of 8-15.
The eggs of these secretive gamebirds are special trophies for any serious bird watcher or egg collector.
Cost of Bird Egg Collections
For egg collectors looking to buy bird egg specimens, prices can vary widely:
| Species | Price Range |
|---|---|
| Robin | $5 – $20 |
| Finch | $10 – $40 |
| Goose | $20 – $75 |
| Owl | $30 – $100+ |
| Hummingbird | $50 – $200 |
| Pheasant | $50 – $150 |
| Loon | $75 – $250+ |
In general, the rarer the species, the higher the price. Specific color variations and markings also impact cost. For birders, finding eggs in the wild is priceless.
Where to Find Bird Nests and Eggs
Finding bird eggs in the wild requires patience, luck, and good observation skills. Some of the best places to look for nests include:
- Dense shrubs and thickets
- Low tree branches
- Cavities in trees or walls
- Cliffs, bluffs, and rocky outcroppings
- Marshlands and wetlands
- Barns, sheds, and manmade structures
- Nest boxes put up specifically for birds
When checking potential nesting spots, move slowly and quietly to avoid disturbing the birds. Use binoculars to scan higher nest locations. Focus searching efforts in the early breeding season before vegetation becomes too dense. With sharp eyes and persistence, fascinating finds await.
Conclusion
For birders, naturalists, and collectors, bird eggs hold endless appeal. Their vibrant colors, intricate designs, and amazing diversity make them treasures to admire. Seeking out bird nests offers a special glimpse into avian reproductive biology and behavior. Top eggs pursued by enthusiasts come from widespread species like robins to rare birds like hummingbirds and owls. Backyard finds, wild discoveries, and collected specimens each have their own magic. With patience and care, the splendors of bird eggs can be enjoyed by all.
