Dad might bring a twig or two, but Mom does the building. With a four-layer architecture of beak-crushed twigs, leafy mat covering, grapevine bark lining, and grass and pine needle insulation, all of Mom's sweat equity should pay off on the real estate market. But this little cup nest is a one-and-done. Almost as soon as these eggs hatch and the chicks bail over the edge, Mom and Dad cardinal are outta here.

Montshire Museum of Science
Norwich, VT

01.13.24