Variation in the Nesting-Habits of Birds

Abstract

IN connection with T. D. A. Cockerell's letter, re the nesting-habits of the blackbird in Colorado, it may be of interest to note that in the grounds around our residence about a fortnight ago, I discovered the nest of a blackbird (Merula vulgaris) built upon the ground close to a boundary wall about five feet high. The bottom of the nest is resting on the ground, but there is some trailing ivy growing around—but not on the wall—which supports it at sides and partially obscures it. There is a public road on the other side of the wall and the noise of considerable traffic. There are many suitable trees, bushes, and shrubs, all around, some of which have been utilized by other blackbirds—indeed, there is a tree within a few feet of the nest, which would have been suitable but for the chances of observation from the road.