You Should Not Move a Bird Nest with Eggs

Moving a bird nest with eggs is generally not recommended and should only be done in extreme circumstances, such as when the nest is in immediate danger from construction, predators, or severe weather. If you're wondering how to safely move a bird nest with eggs, the short answer is: it's rarely advisable and often illegal under federal protections like the Migratory Bird Treaty Act in the United States. Most native bird species—and their nests, eggs, and young—are protected by law, meaning disturbing or relocating a nest without proper permits can result in fines or legal action. In nearly all cases, the best course of action is to wait until the birds have naturally fledged and left the nest before making any changes to the area.

Understanding the Legal and Ethical Implications

Before considering any physical intervention, it’s essential to understand the legal framework surrounding bird nests. In the U.S., the Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA) of 1918 makes it unlawful to disturb, move, destroy, or possess the nest, eggs, or feathers of over 1,000 species of migratory birds without a permit. This includes common backyard birds like robins, swallows, sparrows, and bluebirds. Violations can lead to penalties up to $15,000 and six months in prison per offense. Similar protections exist in Canada under the Migratory Birds Convention Act and in the UK through the Wildlife and Countryside Act of 1981.

From an ethical standpoint, moving a nest—even with good intentions—can cause significant stress to parent birds. Many species rely heavily on location-specific cues to find their nests. Disrupting this can lead to nest abandonment, where parents stop returning to feed the chicks or incubate the eggs. Once abandoned, the eggs will cool and fail to develop, leading to the death of the embryos.

When Is It Ever Acceptable to Move a Bird Nest?

There are extremely limited scenarios where relocation might be considered, but even then, success is not guaranteed. These include:

• Immediate physical danger: The nest is in the path of active construction, roadwork, or landscaping that cannot be delayed.
• Natural disasters: Flooding, fire, or storm damage threatens the nest site.
• Predator threats: A nest is highly accessible to cats, raccoons, or snakes due to its placement.

If one of these conditions applies, the following guidelines must be followed to maximize the chances of parental reacceptance:

1. Move the nest no more than 10 feet (3 meters) from the original location. Birds use visual landmarks to locate their nests; too great a distance may prevent them from finding it.
2. Do it quickly and quietly, preferably while the parents are away foraging.
3. Keep the nest intact, including all nesting material. Use a rigid container like a small basket or bowl if support is needed.
4. Place the relocated nest at the same height and orientation as the original to maintain familiar surroundings.
5. Monitor from a distance for several hours to see if the parents return.

Even under these conditions, abandonment rates remain high. Studies show that many songbirds do not relocate successfully after human interference, especially altricial species whose chicks require constant care.

Biological Considerations: Why Nests Are So Fragile

Birds invest considerable energy into selecting and constructing nests. Site selection is based on shelter from weather, concealment from predators, proximity to food sources, and microclimate stability. For example, American Robins often build nests in sheltered ledges near human activity because they perceive less threat from larger predators. Barn Swallows favor covered eaves and barn rafters, relying on vertical surfaces and overhead protection.

Eggs are particularly vulnerable during incubation. Most birds maintain a consistent temperature between 99°F and 102°F (37–39°C). Any prolonged disruption—such as being moved, touched excessively, or exposed to direct sunlight—can halt embryonic development. Even brief cooling periods can be fatal, depending on the stage of development.

Additionally, parent birds recognize their nests through a combination of sight, smell, and spatial memory. Relocating a nest alters these cues, increasing the likelihood of rejection. Some species, like Mourning Doves, are known to abandon nests after minimal disturbance, while others, such as certain raptors, may tolerate slight shifts if done carefully.

Cultural and Symbolic Significance of Bird Nests

Beyond biology, bird nests carry deep cultural symbolism across societies. In many Indigenous traditions, nests represent home, renewal, and the sacred act of nurturing life. The arrival of birds building nests in spring is often seen as a sign of rebirth and seasonal transition. In Chinese culture, swallows nesting on a household’s roof are considered auspicious, symbolizing harmony, loyalty, and family continuity.

Conversely, disturbing a nest has long been viewed as taboo. Folklore warns of bad luck or divine retribution for harming birds or their homes. While modern science replaces superstition with ecological understanding, the symbolic weight remains: interfering with a nest disrupts a natural process that humans are meant to observe, not control.

What to Do If You Find a Nest in an Inconvenient Location

It’s common for birds to choose spots that seem inconvenient—under eaves, in hanging plants, inside machinery, or on construction equipment. Before taking action, assess whether the situation truly requires intervention. Ask yourself:

• Is the nest actively endangering people or property?
• Can activity be paused for 4–6 weeks until fledging occurs?
• Can barriers be installed to protect both the nest and humans?

In most cases, patience is the best solution. Songbird nesting cycles typically last:

Bird Species	Egg Incubation (Days)	Nestling Period (Days)	Total Nest Time
American Robin	12–14	13–15	~28 days
House Sparrow	10–14	14–16	~26 days
Bluebird	12–14	16–21	~30 days
Barn Swallow	14–16	18–24	~35 days
Mourning Dove	14	12–15	~28 days

Once fledglings leave, it’s safe to remove the nest and take preventive measures, such as installing exclusion devices or altering access points, to discourage future nesting in problematic areas.

Alternatives to Moving a Nest

Rather than attempting to move a nest with eggs, consider non-invasive alternatives:

• Timing adjustments: Delay construction or maintenance until after nesting season (typically March to August in North America).
• Temporary barriers: Erect fencing or signage to keep people and pets away.
• Nest boxes or platforms: Install alternative nesting sites nearby to encourage birds to nest in safer, designated locations next season.
• Consult wildlife experts: Contact local wildlife rehabilitators or bird conservation organizations for advice.

Common Misconceptions About Moving Bird Nests

Several myths persist about bird behavior and nest relocation:

• Myth: Birds won’t notice if you touch the eggs.
  Truth: While birds generally have a poor sense of smell, they are highly sensitive to visual and tactile disturbances. Handling eggs increases the risk of contamination or chilling.
• Myth: You can move a nest just a little and the parents will still find it.
  Truth: Even small moves can disorient birds, especially ground-nesting or cavity-nesting species.
• Myth: If a nest fails, the birds will just build another one immediately.
  Truth: Nest-building is energetically costly. After failure, birds may delay breeding or skip a season entirely.

Regional Differences and Regulations

Laws vary by country and region. In the U.S., the MBTA applies federally, but enforcement and permitting processes differ by state. Alaska and Hawaii have additional protections for endemic species. In Canada, permits for nest relocation may be issued by Environment and Climate Change Canada for specific situations, such as airport safety concerns. In the European Union, the Birds Directive provides similar safeguards.

Urban areas often see more conflicts due to dense human infrastructure. Cities like Toronto and London have urban wildlife programs that assist with conflict resolution without violating laws. Always check with your local wildlife agency before taking action.

How to Prepare for Future Nesting Seasons

Prevention is far more effective than intervention. To avoid conflicts:

• Inspect buildings and structures in early spring before nesting begins.
• Seal openings larger than 2 inches (5 cm), which deters many species.
• Use humane deterrents like reflective tape, wind chimes, or motion-activated sprinklers in problem areas.
• Provide alternative nesting options, such as birdhouses placed away from high-traffic zones.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I move a bird nest with eggs to a birdhouse?

No. Transferring a nest into a birdhouse is extremely unlikely to succeed. Parent birds are attached to the original location, and enclosed spaces may feel like traps. Additionally, most open-cup nesters (like robins) won’t accept enclosed boxes.

What should I do if I accidentally disturbed a nest?

Leave the area immediately and avoid further contact. Watch from a distance to see if parents return within a few hours. If not, contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator.

Are there any birds whose nests can be legally moved?

In the U.S., non-native species like European Starlings and House Sparrows are not protected under the MBTA and may be managed more freely, though humane treatment is still encouraged.

Will the mother bird reject the eggs if I touch them?

Most birds don’t rely on scent, so touching eggs won’t automatically cause rejection. However, handling increases risks of disease transmission, temperature loss, and structural damage to the shell.

Who can I call for help with a problematic bird nest?

Contact your state’s wildlife agency, a certified wildlife removal service, or a local bird conservation group. Never attempt relocation without professional guidance.