Studying and collecting eggs has been a fascinating hobby for people for thousands of years. However, in modern times, it is illegal in just about every part of the world to collect wild eggs.

If you read about the Tradition of the Easter Egg, you'll learn that from ancient times people viewed the egg as a symbol of life and birth. Colored eggs were enjoyed by the Greeks and Romans. In the middle ages, people would use eggs as a free, beautiful form of decorating their homes.

By the 1800s, egg collecting took on a life of its own. Fashion at the time involved bird feathers (and even bird BODIES) on hats and outerwear. Interest in eggs rose to an all-time high. The European osprey was almost made extinct because its eggs were lovely and sought after.

Because of the danger, many countries began passing laws against taking the bird, its feathers, eggs, nest or other associated items. That grew into international treaties. As more and more research is done, the immense harm caused by egg and nest collectors has become more apparent. Some bird populations are greatly reduced by these activities, and law enforcement officials take these crimes very seriously.

If you enjoy the look of eggs and nests, bring your camera! Take photos in a way that does NOT disturb the bird family. But *never* touch or take the actual eggs or nest. To do so is to disrupt the reproductive cycle of the birds, and perhaps cause irreprable harm to that bird population.

Collecting Nests and Eggs is Illegal
Wild Birds: Illegal Pets
Tradition of the Easter Egg
Bird Nest Paintings and Artwork