How do birds know the way to build their nests? Nobody knows. But, generation after generation, they do build nests similar in plan to the ones made by their own ancestors. Instinctively and marvelously, each new family seems to know exactly what kind of nest to make, and where. Forty-two varieties of birds and their nests are presented here - from the ostrich whose nest is a hollow scratched into the sand, to the woodpecker for whom a hole in a tree is home. For each different bird, Miss Earle describes the nest and where it is built; the eggs and their color and size; the bird's appearance, its distinctive songs and habits. She also names the geographical location of the nesting area, which, in the majority of cases, is in the United States. A few extremely interesting foreign nest builders are included. Both the text and the author's charming illustrations for each page are scientifically accurate. 

This is the kind of book any nature lover, young or old, will want. It is a book to be read, to be dipped into for reference, or simply to be looked at. However it is used, it offers a delightful experience. 

From the dust jacket