*Oology is a branch of ornithology studying bird eggs, nests and breeding behaviour. The word is derived from the Greek oion, meaning egg.

3. Bushtit

This part of the Stanislaus Audubon Website is focused on 44 common Central Valley nesting species with background about their nesting habits. Please check the Great Valley Museum Central Valley Egg Collection starting page for links to all the featured species.

BUSHTIT NESTING INFORMATION (From birdsoftheworld.org)

Nests - From late January to April, pairs form within Bushtit flocks and begin to search for potential nest sites. Birds continue to bring nesting material to nest after egg-laying commences and until eggs hatch. Paired male and female determine specific nest site by attaching and reattaching spider web in various places until enough has accumulated in one place for establishment of a nest. Nest built of spider web and plant material. Camouflaged with local plant material, usually of tree species the nest is built within. Heavily lined with soft insulating material such as feathers, fur, and/or downy plant material. The finished nest is elaborate, pendulous. Gourd-shaped with small, circular, side-facing hooded entrance near top.
Eggs - Average of 6 eggs per clutch and are very small, white, slightly glossy and smooth.
Incubation - both males and females incubate eggs usually 12 - 13 days.
Fledging - Departs nest at 18 d of age, fully capable of flight; usually flies from nest.

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