Courtship feeding is done by most species of birds, usually with the male presenting solid food or regurgitated food to the female. It appears to be not only a pair-bonding function but can actually provide the female with nutritional benefits. Females become heavier just before laying their eggs and it takes more energy for them to find food, so the male providing food helps to maintain the female’s health during the reproductive time.

It is also fun to watch what kind of materials birds may use in their nests. You can provide commercial nesting material, which is clean and colorful. Some birds have been known to pick material off clothes hanging on a clothesline.

It is helpful to provide calcium suet to nesting birds and to birds that are rearing their young. Calcium can be provided by offering suet with calcium (such as Wild Birds Unlimited's Calcium Care) or ground up egg shells. Be sure the egg shells have been completely dried before placing them out for the birds.

Providing shelter for the birds is important. Houses can help provide a place for birds to rear their young. If a brood has been successfully reared in a location, the birds may return to that site again. If a cat or predator has disturbed the nest site, the birds will choose another location.

Birds are fascinating to watch. You can enjoy the courtship and rearing of the young birds if you are aware that it happens right in your own backyard!