My son just brought this spring nest to my attention – the birds have fledged and are now moving freely around the farm.  Their nest, a home that they shared for months, is all that is left.  When you really look closely, you can see how industrious these birds really are.

Not far away is the pasture for my wife’s horses – inside the barn, where she grooms them, is an apparent Home Depot for building supplies.  Upon close inspection, much of this nest is made out of horse hair – the hair from the tail and mane that is extremely durable and has been used throughout history for a number of uses:  paint brushes, upholstery, musical instruments, fishing line.  I paid a pretty penny for a great looking horsehair belt.

We think the nest was made by a Jenny Wren but can’t be sure … are any of you gardeners out there ornithologists?  We’d love to settle some bets around the office.