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This Bushtit nest was first noticed on the LATO trail on Sunday, April 25, 2015, by Ruby Klatt. I took the photos on Friday, May 1, 2015.
The male and female Bushtit spend a month or more building their hanging nest. The nest may hang up to twelve inches below the anchor point. There is a hole near the top that leads down into the nest. The nest is made using spider webs and plant material. Bushtits stretch the nest downward by sitting in it as the nest is being constructed. Feathers, fur, and downy plant material are used to insulate the nest. The outside is camouflaged using bits taken from nearby plants and the tree the nest is built in.
The male and female Bushtit plus helpers sleep in the nest while it is active. The nest is often used for a second brood each season. There may be from 4-10 eggs in the nest. The incubation period is 12-15 days, and the nestling period is 18 days. mk
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