Expert: Christine Zimmerman - 7/1/2009

Question
If I find a birds nest on the ground should I keep it and dose it have any meaning?

Answer
Merry Meet Ann,

While there is relatively little magickal significance concerning birds nests Folk Medicine Practitioners believed the following about them:

The nests of our feathered friends have been linked with headaches. Folk medicine practitioners throughout the United States have long believed that if human hair is used to build a bird's nest, the owner of the hair will
develop a headache. It is also believed in folk medicine that a pulled tooth placed into a bird's nest will prevent headaches.

I personally have a huge collection of birds nests.  In fact my husband brought one home for me just yesterday and I found one last weekend.  I find them fascinating as every species of bird has their own unique way of making a nest.  They all differ and some to great degree!  The one I found last week was made from mud (what a find!)  A better understanding would be to explain the significance of the bird as an air totem itself:

Air Animal Totems have a penchant for assisting us in matters of higher knowledge. Air being the most ethereal of elements, it's understandable that the creatures who inhabit it are able to lend the best understanding of it's invisible ways. Closest to the heavens, air animals are our best allies as they herald our desires to the very gods in the skies.

Air animal totems are also symbols of strength (both physical and mental) and sovereignty. Very important traits, particularly when we are experiencing new transitions or surroundings in our lives.


If air animal totems are catching your attention, you should feel very heartened by their presence. Allow their spirit to boost your confidence, and remind you that the ultimate power is within this present, unseen moment. Air animals are good omens, and their appearance is like a wink from god.

So in keeping with the air totem, keep your bird's nest.  The best way to preserve them is to get some spray varnish and cover the nest in it.  This will keep it from degrading and falling apart.

Should you have any other questions, please don't hesitate to ask.

Many blessings to you and yours,

Christine