When it comes to teaching children about the natural world, there are few subjects more fascinating than bird nests. These intricate homes, built by mothers and fathers to shelter and care for their young, are not only a marvel of engineering but also a beautiful example of the love and dedication that parents have for their children.
There are many excellent children’s books about bird nests, but here are just a few of our favorites:
The Life and Times of the Birdhouse by Linda Glaser – This charming picture book tells the story of a birdhouse that is passed down through generations of birds, from its construction by a father bird to its eventual decay and replacement by a new generation. Along the way, readers learn about the different birds that live in the birdhouse and the changing seasons that they experience.
A Nest Is Noisy by Dianna Hutts Aston – This delightful nonfiction book is full of fun facts and beautiful illustrations about the many different kinds of bird nests that can be found around the world. From the tiny nests of hummingbirds to the enormous nests of bald eagles, children will be captivated by the variety of nests and the birds that live in them.
Nest by Jorey Hurley – This wordless picture book follows a mother bird as she builds her nest and raises her chicks. The illustrations are simple but beautiful, and children will love following the story of the mother bird and her family.
The Nest by Kenneth Oppel – This thrilling chapter book is perfect for reluctant readers. It tells the story of a boy who finds a mysterious egg in the woods and decides to take it home and care for it. But as the egg begins to hatch, the boy starts to suspect that there is something not quite right about the creature that is emerging from it.
Whether you’re looking for a fun picture book or a more suspenseful chapter book, there’s sure to be a bird nest book on this list that your child will love.