Nest Quest Go: Swifts and Swallows

Why are historical nest records important?
Historical records provide a glimpse into the past. We know very little about the historical nesting activity of most birds. These valuable nest cards will give researchers insight about changes in bird nesting behavior over time.

What are we hoping to learn from transcribing these cards?
The potential for learning seems endless. These cards will provide a historical perspective on the lives of birds across the United States in a variety of habitats. Specifically, the cards provide information on the reproductive success of different species, their choice in nesting sites, cowbird activity, etc.

Where did all these cards come from?
The nest record cards were a part of the North American Nest Record-Card Program. For more than thirty years, starting in the 1960s, The Cornell Lab of Ornithology distributed nest record cards to people who wanted to participate in citizen-science and monitor bird nests. Participants filled out the cards and then mailed them to the Lab where they were organized and stored. Until Zooniverse came along, entering all the data into our database was too costly and time consuming.

What if I cannot read the handwriting?
Please do the best you can with transcription. The cards will be looked at multiple times. If it is impossible to read, leave the section blank.

What if I don't see a choice that makes sense or matches the card I am transcribing?
Feel free to engage with us on the Talk channel to have your questions answered.

Other questions?
Feel free to reach out to us on the Talk channel. We will monitor discussions there and provide answers to pressing questions.

Photo credit:
Banner image of Tree Swallows: David Votes on Birdshare
Icon image of Violet-green Swallow: Iamoustique on Birdshare

Collage & Tutorial:
White-throated Swift, JMC Nature Photos, Birdshare
Black Swift, ©Bryan Calk/Macaulay Library at the Cornell Lab
Chimney Swift, ©Pete Monacell/Macaulay Library at the Cornell Lab
Vaux's Swift, ©Jacob Miller/Macaulay Library at the Cornell Lab
Northern Rough-winged Swallow, John, Birdshare
Barn Swallow Chicks, Lois McNaught, Birdshare
Violet-green Swallow, Ken Phenicie Jr., Birdshare
Barn Swallow Feeding Young, Jim, Birdshare
Tree Swallow, ulhas mayekar, Birdshare