That Ball of Leaves in Your Maine Tree Isn’t a Bird’s Nest

How many times have I pointed toward the collection of leaves in a tree, urging my son to notice the huge bird nests nestled among the branches?

Far too many times, it seems. But as it turns out, I couldn't have been more mistaken. If you've done the same thing, you are dead wrong as well.

Let's discover something new together. Maine's wildlife is abundant and incredibly stunning. We're so fortunate to witness the beauty of the forests, trees, and all the animals that call it home.

I love birdwatching. My son and I are always excited when spring comes and the mamas and babies are singing their songs in the early morning hours.

I am often showing him nests everywhere. Have you seen the huge collections of leaves in the trees in your yard? Well, they aren't nests.

According to Geography Realm, it's not birds, but squirrels who are creating these "nests." Say what?

As leaves start to fall in autumn, squirrel homes, called dreys, appear up in the trees.

Dreys are big cozy nests made of leaves, twigs, moss, and sometimes even fur. They tuck all of this between the branches far up in the trees.

To me, they're like squirrel mansions, giving shelter and warmth for sleeping, staying safe, and raising little ones. It's nature's way of saying, "Home sweet drey!"

I'm now determined to catch squirrels throwing tiny block parties and neighborhood gatherings up high in the trees, just like the "Real Squirrelwives of Maine".