Cardinals build their nests in live trees, shrubs, or vine tangles, anywhere up to about 15 feet high. Higher nests, and nests placed in denser tangles, seem to offer some relief from predators. The bright male carries nesting material to the female, who does most of the building.

What time of year do cardinals build nests?

So when do cardinals begin nesting? The breeding season can run from March to as late as September. The female will lay 2-5 eggs that are buff-white with dark marks. The female builds the nest while the male keeps a close eye on her and the surrounding territory for predators and other males.

Where do cardinals make their nests?

Cardinals do not usually use their nests more than once. The female builds a cup nest in a well-concealed spot in dense shrub or a low tree 1–3 m (3.3–9.8 ft) off the ground. The nest is made of thin twigs, bark strips, and grasses, lined with grasses or other plant fibers.