Birding/Nest ID

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Question
My son and my wife found a birds nest in a rose bush they were cutting back for fall this weekend and we were wondering what type of bird might have made it.  It is quite small, two and half inches across the inside of the nest.  There are three hatched eggs in the nest which are white, about the size of a peanut M&M (very scientific i know). The nest is made out of grass, and lined with dryer lint.  It was built around some of the branches of the rose bush.  My son thought he had seen a humming bird going in and out of the bush this summer.  Thanks for your help.

Answer
It's called a "cup nest" because of the shape. Based on the size of the eggs alone, it could only be a hummingbird. Most common in North America are Anna's and Ruby Throated. Hummingbirds generally nest in bushes or in trees that are about head high.

Hope this helps,

Julia

Birding

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Julia Booth

Expertise

I can answer questions about bird identification (by sight or sound), behavior, distribution, population, conservation, mating, nesting, fledging and feeding. I do have some practical knowledge about foreign species, but identification skills are limited in that arena. Bear in mind that as much as I know, it's possible that at least some of you will ask a question that I am unable to answer. At which point I would direct you to wherever or whomever I thought could provide you with that information.

Experience

I have 15 years birding experience in Southern California.

Organizations
Audubon Society

Education/Credentials
My education is in art and photography -but I have a substantial portfolio of nature related work.

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