This is the time of year birds are busy preparing for nesting season. Nests take all shapes and sizes and incorporate different materials from big sticks (ospreys and herons) to dead grass, twigs, and fibers (robins, orioles, and warblers).

A number of bird species nest on balconies and building ledges or in the nooks and crannies of houses (even hanging plants!). In some cases, usually involving non-native birds, nests can pose challenges. More often, though, nests can be a wonderful source of enjoyment. Enjoy five photos from our Photo Contest and do share your own nest stories in the comments or on Facebook.

Yellow Warbler © Jaye Bliss

Osprey © David Ennis

Great Blue Herons © Carol Pike

Robin’s nest © Paula Tervo

Baltimore Oriole © Jeff Martineau

The 2016 Photo Contest will launch in June. Stay tuned for details!