Robins do not typically steal other birds’ nests; instead, they may use abandoned nests or build their own in safe locations to raise their young.
Robins are beloved backyard birds, but their nesting behaviors often raise questions. While they don’t typically steal active nests, their relationship with other birds’ nesting sites is more complex than many realize.
Robins and Nest Reuse: The Facts
Contrary to popular belief, robins rarely steal other birds’ active nests. However, they do exhibit some interesting nesting behaviors:
- Robins might repair or build on top of abandoned nests
- They occasionally reuse their own old nests
- They sometimes build multiple nests before choosing one
According to ornithologist Laura Erickson, “While robins might repair or build on top of a previous nest, most of them build a new nest. A used nest is a mess, stretched out and often home to insects or parasites.”
Why Robins Build Multiple Nests
Robins sometimes build several nests simultaneously, particularly when they find ideal structural support. Author Len Eiserer documented cases where:
- One robin built 26 nests on garage rafters
- Another constructed 8 nests on fire escape steps
This behavior stems from what scientists call “supernormal stimuli” – artificial structures that provide better support than natural sites.
Nest Predators vs. Nest Thieves
While robins aren’t nest thieves, several birds do prey on robin nests:
| Predator | Target |
|---|---|
| Blue Jays | Eggs and nestlings |
| Crows | Eggs and nestlings |
| Snakes | Eggs |
| Squirrels | Eggs |
Interestingly, some unexpected birds like Black-Capped Chickadees have been reported eating eggs, though this behavior isn’t common.
Robin Nesting Behavior Explained
Understanding robin nesting habits can help bird enthusiasts support these birds:
Nest Construction
Robins typically take 2-6 days to build a nest. Females select sites based primarily on structural support rather than concealment.
Egg Care
Robins are devoted parents. The male plays a crucial role in feeding nestlings after they hatch. Without the male, the female often abandons the nest.
Nest Abandonment
Robins may abandon nests for several reasons:
- Predator threats (cats, snakes, jays)
- Death of a parent
- Environmental disturbances
How to Support Nesting Robins
Bird enthusiasts can help robins by:
- Providing suitable nesting materials like mud and grass
- Keeping cats indoors during nesting season
- Using quality binoculars to observe nests from a distance
- Installing appropriate bird feeders to supplement their diet
According to Journey North, human intervention with robin nests often does more harm than good. It’s illegal to raise wild birds without proper permits.
When You Find a Robin Nest
If you discover a robin nest:
- Observe from a distance using long-range binoculars
- Don’t move or touch the nest
- Monitor for signs of abandonment (no parents for 2-4 days)
- Remove only clearly abandoned nests to prevent parasite buildup
Remember that robins are protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act, making it illegal to disturb active nests.
