<b>How Do Birds Prepare Most Nests?</b><br> Often, the outer layers are of coarse material, and the inside is lined with softer or finer material.<br><br> <b>When?</b><br> Spring is the start of the breeding season for most of our North American birds. They pair up with mates, build nests, lay eggs, raise young, and then some of them repeat the cycle — as many as three times.<br><br> <b>Purpose of Nesting Material</b><br> The term "nesting material" refers to anything that birds may use to construct a nest. Whether they create a simple depression of sticks and straw or if they have a more elaborate nest structure with intricate architecture, all birds need good materials for their nests. Regardless of the nest size or shape, the nesting material serves several purposes:<br> Cushioning eggs from the ground and parents' weight<br> Insulating eggs from temperature changes<br> Holding the clutch together for heat efficiency<br> Camouflaging the nest from predators<br> Protecting the nest from the elements<br>