"The glory of the Lord shall endure forever: the Lord shall rejoice in His works." Psa. 104:31.
Ovenbirds were not given this name because they are baked in ovens, but because their nests look like an old-fashioned baker's oven. There are many varieties of ovenbirds throughout North and South America. In North America they are found only east of the Rocky Mountains. All are noted for their lovely melodies, especially when a bright moonlit night brings them out to sing in groups.
Their unusual oven-like homes are admired by bird lovers. However, it takes much searching to find one as they are well concealed. The nests, looking like ovens or igloos, are made of twig-supported mud or clay with a small opening at the bottom. Usually these are built on the ground, up against a fallen tree, and near a pile of brush or leaves. They are so well hidden that a person may walk right past one and never see it.
When a male ovenbird wants to attract a mate, he puts on quite a display. With wings and tail spread out, he hops around with his head bobbing up and down excitedly. If a female is impressed by this she will agree to be his mate, and they soon are busy building a home. This is done very carefully. As it progresses, if they are not pleased with any part they will remove that section and do it over, or perhaps when finished will add something to improve it.
After the eggs are hatched and the chicks are in the nest, the mother is most careful to protect them. When she leaves them for any reason, she stays close to the ground to avoid letting the nest be discovered, running like a mouse for a good distance before taking to the air. When she returns she does the same.
Those in South America are found all over that large continent, some in deserts, some on ocean shores and others in mountains as high as 16,000 feet above sea level. These usually make their nests somewhat differently from their northern relatives, although following an oven-like pattern. One variety even makes its home in plain sight and seems to prefer being near people. These oven-like nests are often built snugly on top of a fence post or stump.
Who taught these unusual birds to build such elaborate nests and how to raise and protect their young? Who gave them such sweet voices? Of course it was the Lord God, their Creator, of whom the Bible says, "0 Lord, how manifold [what variety] are Thy works! In wisdom hast Thou made them all." Psa. 104:2424O Lord, how manifold are thy works! in wisdom hast thou made them all: the earth is full of thy riches. (Psalm 104:24). None of the birds or animals are aware that they are watched over by their Creator, but we who experience that care and love to us should always be thankful to Him and say with the Psalmist: "Oh that men would praise the Lord for His goodness, and for His wonderful works to the children of men!" Psa. 107:88Oh that men would praise the Lord for his goodness, and for his wonderful works to the children of men! (Psalm 107:8). Have you ever thanked Him for His love and care?