Appliance of science: How do birds choose where to build their nests?

It is that time of year again; busy birds flitter around our gardens as they gather material for their nests, writes Dr Naomi Lavelle. 

But did you ever wonder how birds make these marvels of architecture without any training or plans? Although birds are certainly hard-wired to build their nests, there is also an element of learning involved. Many birds will lose their first brood simply because they choose a poor nest site.

How do birds choose where to build their nests?