How to Identify Eggs of Wild California Birds

Species of the chickadee lay very thin-shelled eggs that are white and cream in color.

The best way to identify a bird is by its eggs. It is helpful to know where the eggs were found, color, markings, size and shape. The habitat and location of the nest is important in singling out the type of wild bird. In California, the type of wild bird eggs that you could possibly find are American Robins, Dark-eyed Juncos, Golden-crowned Sparrows, Hermit Thrushes and Chestnut-backed Chickadee plus various others.

Things You'll Need

• Binoculars
• Camera
• Coin
• Books on birds

Instructions

1. Measure the egg size. Study its color, markings and shape. Take a picture of the eggs with a coin for size comparison. If the egg is small and has a mix of colors such as gray, cream and white with brown speckles, it is most likely to be from a sparrow species. Research types of wild bird eggs common to the area of California you will be visiting. Take out books on bird eggs from your local library to compare your findings.

2. Examine the nest's location. Determine where the nest is placed. Not all nests are found in trees or openings to houses and buildings. Some types of birds are ground nesters. Figure out what the nest is made of -- for example, chickadees use soft materials such as rotten wood chips or lichen, moss or grass to create their nests. Fur is also used to cover the loose eggs.

3. Watch for parent birds returning to the nest. This is the most effective way to tell what type of eggs are in the nest. Observe the birds in the nest area. Parent birds will regularly tend to the nest if the female recently laid the eggs.

References

• The Birder's Report: Eggs and Nest Identification
• Wild Birds Unlimited: Nature Happenings
• Nest Watch: How to Identify Birds' Nests
• Sialis: Nests and Eggs That May Show up in Bluebird Nestboxes

Resources

• The Birder's Report: Eggs and Nest Identification