Yikes! Nature lovers, I need some help fast please

[christinaandrob]

Good morning all...

It so gorgeous out this morning that I decided to go outside and clean the yard. I started to rake some dead grass at the base of a tree in our front yard and I uncovered a nest. I covered it back up quickly but I'm stumped at what I saw and heard. Judging by the looks of it, I would have guessed that we had bunnies, but I'm pretty sure I saw they were birds. I don't want to uncover it again, and am afraid I already came too close to it if it is birds. I know some birds build nests in the ground, but don't believe it's the type of birds we have in this neighborhood. Any idea what kind of birds this could be? They are pretty developed, were grey with pinkish beaks (or at least I think they were beaks!), and they were chirping like mad. Any ideas?

[beahmer]

Usually its bunnies on the ground - they build holes and cover themselves back up with leaves/fur - at least that's been my experience. Watch it if it is when you mow around the area. The mower tends to freak them out as they get older and they WILL run out and into the mower if your not careful.

[sunnydog]

quote:Originally posted by beahmer

Usually its bunnies on the ground - they build holes and cover themselves back up with leaves/fur - at least that's been my experience. Watch it if it is when you mow around the area. The mower tends to freak them out as they get older and they WILL run out and into the mower if your not careful.


all I can think of is Watership Down...

[Newsy]

It might be birds. From your coloring description it sounds like Slate juncos. A few other species nest on the ground too. Call the NAture center 703-729-9704 and ask for Linda. I'll come out and check for you.:)

[boomertsfx]

yeah we had alot of bunnies in our back yard (townhouse) last year. I was going around with my weedwacker and found a nest (right along our foundation) and almost killed a few. Definately keep an eye out for them!