Many birdwatchers and nature lovers are fascinated by the secretive and charming towhee, a type of songbird known for its bold coloring and distinctive scratching behavior. One common question that arises when observing these birds is: where do towhees nest? These elusive birds prefer hidden, quiet locations that offer protection and shelter for raising their young. Understanding their nesting habits can provide valuable insights for both casual bird enthusiasts and serious ornithologists, and can also help anyone hoping to attract these birds to their garden or backyard.
Overview of Towhee Species
Common Types of Towhees
There are several species of towhees found throughout North America. The most well-known are:
- Eastern Towhee(Pipilo erythrophthalmus)
- Spotted Towhee(Pipilo maculatus)
- California Towhee(Melozone crissalis)
- Canyon Towhee(Melozone fusca)
Each species has slightly different nesting preferences based on its environment, but all towhees follow similar patterns when it comes to nesting location, materials, and timing.
Preferred Nesting Locations
Ground-Level Nesting
Most towhees, particularly Eastern and Spotted Towhees, build their nests close to the ground. Their preferred spot is often at the base of a shrub, dense brush pile, or within tall grasses. These locations offer natural camouflage and help protect the nest from predators and harsh weather conditions.
Low Shrubs and Thickets
While many towhee nests are found directly on the ground, others may be built slightly above it in shrubs, low trees, or vines. Typically, nests are placed no more than five feet above the ground. The denser and thornier the foliage, the more appealing it is to the towhee, as it provides better concealment and security.
Secluded and Quiet Areas
Towhees prefer nesting in quiet, undisturbed places. They avoid high-traffic areas and open lawns. Instead, they are drawn to forest edges, overgrown fields, and thick brushy areas near woodland trails or remote gardens. Human presence is usually a deterrent, so natural environments are more likely to host nesting towhees.
Nest Construction Details
Materials Used
The female towhee is primarily responsible for building the nest. She uses a variety of materials, which can include:
- Dry grasses
- Twigs and small sticks
- Pine needles
- Leaves and bark strips
- Hair, rootlets, and moss for lining
The nest is typically shaped like a deep cup, sturdy enough to support the eggs and young chicks but soft inside to provide warmth and comfort.
Construction Time
Nest construction generally takes four to five days. The female works diligently, shaping the structure and weaving materials together. Once the nest is completed, the laying of eggs begins shortly thereafter.
Egg Laying and Incubation
Clutch Size
Towhees usually lay 2 to 6 eggs per nesting attempt. The number varies slightly depending on the species and environmental conditions. Eggs are generally pale with speckled or blotched markings that help them blend into the nest.
Incubation Period
Only the female incubates the eggs, which takes around 12 to 14 days. During this time, the male towhee may help by defending the area or bringing food. However, he does not typically participate in incubation directly.
Nestling Development
Hatching and Growth
Once the eggs hatch, the chicks are altricial meaning they are born blind, featherless, and helpless. Both parents feed the nestlings a diet rich in insects to promote rapid growth. The young birds stay in the nest for 9 to 12 days before fledging.
Parental Care
Even after leaving the nest, fledglings often remain close to their parents for several days. They continue to be fed and protected as they learn to forage and navigate their surroundings. This extended care increases their chances of survival.
Seasonal Nesting Patterns
Breeding Season Timing
Towhees typically nest from early spring through mid-summer. In warmer climates, nesting can start as early as March, while in cooler regions, it may begin in April or May. Some species may produce two broods per season if conditions allow.
Multiple Broods
In favorable environments, towhees may raise more than one brood per season. When this happens, the female often begins building a second nest while the male continues to care for the fledglings from the first brood.
Threats to Towhee Nests
Predators
Despite their well-hidden locations, towhee nests face several threats, including:
- Snakes
- Raccoons
- Domestic cats
- Squirrels
- Cowbirds (nest parasites)
Towhees respond to threats with alarm calls, distraction displays, or by temporarily abandoning the nest to avoid drawing attention.
Human Disturbance
Urban development and habitat destruction are growing concerns for nesting towhees. Mowing fields, clearing underbrush, or allowing pets to roam freely can disturb or destroy nesting sites. Providing a safe, quiet environment is essential for their nesting success.
Attracting Towhees to Your Yard
Create Suitable Habitat
To attract nesting towhees, homeowners can:
- Plant native shrubs and dense bushes
- Leave leaf litter and natural ground cover intact
- Avoid pesticides and herbicides
- Allow part of the yard to grow wild or natural
Provide Food and Water
While towhees mainly feed on insects and seeds found on the ground, offering supplemental food such as millet or cracked corn can encourage their presence. A shallow birdbath placed near a quiet thicket can also help attract them during the breeding season.
Understanding where towhees nest and how they raise their young provides a deeper appreciation for these beautiful, elusive birds. From their preference for ground-level or low shrub nests to their meticulous nest construction and attentive parenting, towhees exhibit fascinating behaviors that reward patient observation. By protecting natural habitats and reducing disturbances, we can help ensure that towhees continue to thrive and nest successfully in our shared environments.