Avian Breeding
Avian breeding involves the activities of mating and reproduction of birds. Birdhouses offer a safe and warm place for birds (and other oviparous animals) to lay eggs and raise their offspring during mating seasons. There are many birds and other animals in the world that will search for an enclosed structure to take care of their young.
A safe and warm place is needed for eggs to go through a process unlike the typical birth of non-oviparous animals. Motherbirds have an external gestation period that takes place during the incubation period when the egg is outside of the womb. Full development of the embryo takes place during the incubation period, and the length of time for incubation varies according to a particular species when the motherbird is protecting her eggs.
The interior space of a human-made structure built specifically for avian wildlife offers the advantage of a successful breeding season. When the proper dimensions are in place, eggs are more likely to hatch and grow all the way into mature fledglings. This is especially beneficial for endangered species.
Observations from the U.S. State of the Birds have indicated that more than one-third of U.S. bird species are at various levels of concern. These levels of concern are organized into a list of 9 categories, each classifying the state of their well-being:
- Not Evaluated
- Data Deficient
- Least Concern
- Near Threatened
- Vulnerable
- Endangered
- Critically Endangered
- Extinct in the Wild
- Extinct
* The number of bird entries to this list grows every year.
Proactively working to protect America's birds involves all U.S. citizens doing their part. That simply means becoming aware of the problem and doing whatever you can to help our feathered friends.
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