When a bird’s nest is discovered, a common question arises: do birds abandon their nests, particularly if humans have been nearby? True abandonment of a nest is uncommon, especially when human presence is the only factor involved. Birds possess strong parental instincts, investing significant energy into building their nests and raising their young. Understanding typical bird behavior around nests can help clarify situations that might initially appear to be abandonment.
Why Nests May Seem Abandoned
Many situations can make a bird’s nest appear deserted. Parent birds frequently leave the nest to find food for themselves and their offspring. These foraging trips can last for extended periods, especially when a larger number of young birds require feeding. Even with eggs, parents may leave for short intervals to feed, stretch, or preen, but they will return to resume incubation.
Some bird species are shy and sensitive to human presence. If you are too close, they may wait for you to leave the vicinity before returning to the nest. Observing from a distance is important to avoid causing undue stress. Young birds, known as fledglings, often leave the nest before they are capable of sustained flight, hopping on the ground or in low branches while still being cared for by their parents. This natural stage of development is frequently mistaken for abandonment, as the parents continue to feed them nearby.
Circumstances for True Abandonment
While rare, severe circumstances can lead to true nest abandonment. If predators, such as snakes, cats, or larger birds, repeatedly disturb or attack a nest, parents may abandon it to protect themselves and potentially attempt another brood elsewhere. Repeated human interference or physical damage to the nest, such as from a severe storm, can also result in abandonment if it becomes unsafe or unviable.
The death of one or both parents will inevitably lead to true nest abandonment, as there is no adult to provide care for the eggs or young. If eggs are infertile or all young birds die, parents may abandon the nest, recognizing that the reproductive effort will not succeed.
Determining if a Nest is Truly Abandoned
Identifying a truly abandoned nest requires careful, prolonged observation. A complete lack of parental activity for an extended period is a primary indicator. For nests containing eggs, an absence of 24 to 48 hours without any sign of a parent returning to incubate suggests abandonment. If nestlings are present, an absence of feeding visits for several hours is a strong sign.
Eggs that are consistently cold to the touch, indicating a prolonged lack of incubation, can also suggest abandonment, though direct contact with eggs should be avoided. Other signs include no chirping from young birds, no new droppings around the nest, and no parents flying in or out. Irreparable damage to the nest also points towards abandonment.
Steps to Take If You Find a Nest
When you encounter a bird’s nest, whether it appears active or possibly abandoned, the most responsible action is to observe it from a distance. Minimize any disturbance to the area and ensure pets are kept away. It is important to avoid touching eggs, nestlings, or the nest itself. While the common belief that human scent causes abandonment is largely a myth, direct interference can still cause stress or inadvertently harm the birds.
Intervention should only occur if you are certain a nest is truly abandoned based on the outlined criteria, or if injured birds are present. In such cases, contact a local licensed wildlife rehabilitator or animal rescue organization. These professionals are equipped to provide appropriate care and guidance.