Nesting material for birds differs by species. Some birds would be content with twigs, while birds of the weaving variety use grasses. Birds will also choose different environments to begin their nesting, whether in a tree hollow or a man-made bird house.
Common Nesting Material for Birds
If you plan on hosting your own bird houses, you will probably want to begin with wood chips. They are small and help to insulate the house, but they can also be chewed by the birds to create fibers for weaving. The wood chips will be enough for some species to construct a nest, but many will introduce other materials, depending on their own nesting needs.
Aside from the actual nesting material for birds, there are a number of great nest ideas you can use besides bird houses. There are hanging nests that are built using small, wooden boxes with open tops. Some people even hollow out gourds and hang them on or near their homes, for the birds to nest in.
Nesting material for birds can be bought at any pet supply store or from a bird enthusiasts shop. Wood chips can be made easily, if you have access to saws and other tools needed. For the more fibrous materials that require manufacture you can expect to pay less than $10 for a gallon, or about $2 per pound.
