Finding an empty bird nest can be a delightful surprise that connects us to nature and reminds us of the wonders of the animal kingdom. However, an empty nest may also raise questions about what to do with it. In this article, we’ll explore some quick answers to common questions about empty bird nests and provide more detailed responses on the best practices for dealing with abandoned nests.
Quick Answers
Can I keep an abandoned bird nest? In most cases, it’s best not to keep an empty nest unless you plan to use it for educational purposes or have obtained special permits. Wild birds are protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act.
Is it illegal to remove bird nests? Technically yes, it is illegal to remove active nests from both migratory birds and non-migratory birds protected under the MBTA. Empty nests don’t have the same protections.
What happens if you move a bird nest? Moving or disturbing an active nest may cause the adult birds to permanently abandon it. Even moving an empty nest can be problematic if it’s the off-season and birds plan to reuse it.
Can you touch an abandoned bird’s nest? It’s generally safe to handle an empty or abandoned nest as there is no risk to eggs or hatchlings. However, be cautious of diseases potentially transmitted by nesting materials.
Determining if the Nest is Abandoned
Before deciding what to do with an empty bird nest you find, it’s important to determine if the nest is truly abandoned or if there are plans to reuse it. Here are some tips for evaluating the status of a bird nest:
- Look for signs of damage – A nest that is falling apart is likely abandoned.
- Inspect for eggs, hatchlings, feathers – Anything left behind indicates recent activity.
- Watch the nest for 30-60 minutes – See if adult birds visit, add nesting materials, etc.
- Consider the season – Nesting season runs Spring through Summer.
If you are confident the nest is abandoned, you can proceed with caution. Use common sense – a nest with no damage that you find during nesting season is best left undisturbed.
Leaving the Nest Untouched
If the nest appears to be recently active or you are unable to confirm it is abandoned, the best course of action is leaving it entirely untouched. Here are some reasons to let the empty nest be:
- Prevent disturbance to local ecosystems and bird habitats.
- Avoid potential fines and violations of the MBTA.
- Parent birds may reuse or maintain the nest.
- Fledglings from the first brood may return to the nest.
Many bird species reuse nests across different breeding seasons. Leaving the nest intact allows for natural reuse that supports healthy bird populations over time. Observe the nest from a distance if you want to monitor activity.
Relocating the Nest
In some circumstances, you may need to relocate an empty bird nest if it poses an immediate nuisance or danger. This should only be done with abandoned nests outside of nesting season. Some valid reasons to relocate include:
- The nest blocks access, walkways, or driveways.
- It’s located in a high-traffic area and could get damaged.
- The materials or location poses a hazard (e.g. near power lines).
When relocating a nest:
- Handle carefully and minimize disturbance to the nest structure.
- Wear gloves to protect yourself from diseases, mites, etc.
- Move nest to a similar nearby location (same type of tree or structure).
- Avoid areas likely to flood or expose the nest to weather.
Relocation should be done in a way that preserves the nest for potential reuse by birds in the area. Get the necessary permits if protected species are involved.
Reusing or Recycling the Materials
For crafts, educational displays, and other purposes, you may want to salvage materials from an abandoned nest. This recycles natural materials back into new creations. Some ideas include:
- Frame the nest for decoration or display as-is.
- Incorporate twigs, mosses, etc. into a plant terrarium.
- Felt the nest to create decorative bowls, wreaths, or ornaments.
- Save feathers shed in the nest to use for art projects.
When reusing nests:
- Never reuse a nest that could still be active.
- Clean and disinfect materials thoroughly.
- Avoid methods that damage the nest structure.
- Don’t resell or distribute materials from migratory bird nests.
Upcycling an abandoned nest can give it new life. But be sure to follow ethical practices and confirm it is no longer needed by wildlife first.
Proper Nest Disposal
In some cases, such as when a nest is badly damaged or contains hazardous materials, disposal may be the best option. Here are some tips for safe nest disposal:
- Wear gloves and a mask to protect from diseases.
- Carefully contain all materials so they don’t blow away.
- Seal in a plastic bag if the nest is moldy or contaminated.
- Dispose of the nest in your normal household waste.
- Do not burn or compost nests as this can spread pathogens.
Only dispose of nests you can clearly determine are abandoned and unusable. Never dispose of active nests or those protected under the MBTA.
Legal Protection for Bird Nests
In the United States and Canada, both migratory and native wild birds receive legal protection under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act. Some key nest-related protections include:
- No taking, trafficking, killing, or possession of protected birds, nests, or eggs.
- Permits required for legal collection of feathers, nests etc. for educational use.
- No removal or destruction of active nests during nesting season.
- Fines from $15,000 – $100,000 for individuals who violate regulations.
These laws aim to support healthy and sustainable bird populations through responsible human action. Be mindful of regulations before interacting with any bird nests.
MBTA Nest Removal Exceptions
The MBTA has made the following exceptions allowing removal of bird nests under certain conditions:
- Nests actively being built before eggs are laid.
- Nests that are abandoned or inactive.
- Dangerous nests posing immediate threat to humans.
- Nests of nonnative bird species (e.g. European starlings).
Even with these exceptions, minimizing nest disturbance is recommended. Seek additional state and local permits as well.
State and Local Nest Protection
Beyond federal MBTA law, many states and cities have additional regulations protecting bird nests. These may include:
- Bans on buying, selling, or possession of all native bird parts.
- Earlier start dates for nesting season restrictions.
- Permits to remove nests that specifically threaten buildings.
- Required buffer zones around all active nests.
Check your state and city laws before interacting with any bird nests found on your property.
Seeking Professional Guidance
If you discover a bird nest and remain uncertain about how to proceed, it may be wise to seek professional guidance. Some options include:
- Wildlife rehabilitator – Can assess nest status and give removal recommendations.
- Ornithologist – Provides expertise IDing species and habitats.
- Pest control – Licensed to remove nests deemed hazardous.
- Conservation department – Offers info on permits and local regulations.
Experts can ensure you handle nests legally and ethically. Most aim to minimize disturbance while addressing health and safety issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you get sick from touching a bird nest?
Potentially yes. Nests can harbor bacteria, fungi, mites, and ectoparasites. Wear gloves and wash hands after touching. Avoid bare skin contact or inhaling organic dusts.
How can you identify an abandoned nest?
Signs of abandonment include damage, no eggs/hatchlings, no adult activity, and finding it outside of nesting season. Observe the nest for 30-60 minutes to confirm no birds are using it.
Do birds reuse old nests?
Many species reuse nests across breeding seasons, while others build a new one annually. Reuse depends on nest durability and whether the birds migrate away in winter.
Can you destroy bird nests?
It is illegal to destroy or disturb active nests protected under the MBTA and local laws. Nests can only be removed if abandoned or posing an immediate threat.
How do you permanently get rid of birds?
Humane exclusion solutions like netting, spikes, or slope modifications effectively deter birds without harming them. Remove food attractants, nesting sites, and standing water to encourage relocation.
Conclusion
Empty bird nests can create interesting dilemmas if you discover one on your property. While rules prohibit interfering with active nests, abandoned nests allow more flexibility. With some sleuthing to confirm the nest is inactive combined with responsible handling, you can craftily upcycle materials into art or education displays. Alternatively, simply relocating or disposing of deserted nests prevents potential hazards or nuisances down the road. Our avian neighbors deserve both admiration and ethical treatment even when not directly present in their handiwork of intricate nest structures. With the right balance of precaution and respect, we can protect the habitats of birds while also applying common sense solutions locally when needed.
