Be careful while searching for nests
Some birds like the Killdeer and the Song Sparrow build their nests directly on or near the ground. Be careful while looking for nests to make sure you do not step on one of them. Many more species like the American Robin build their nests in shrubs: take good care not to dislodge any nests when moving around dense foliage. When you are looking for nests in urban areas, also make sure no cat, American Crow or Jays are following you as they are very good predators of eggs and young birds.

Approach nests with care
When you know where a nest is located (you have marked it previously with a piece of material a few metres away), it is good practice to approach it casually, as if by chance, rather than directly and deliberately. Birds are then likely to regard you as harmless and not as a predator intent on robbing the nest contents. When possible, a sitting bird should not be given a sudden fright as it may accidentally knock some of the eggs or young out of the nest if it flies off or, worse, choose to desert its nest.

Choose an appropriate time to visit the nest
In general, it is best not to flush birds in failing evening light. Likewise, birds should not be disturbed in adverse weather such as cold, heavy rain, or extreme heat. 

Minimize disturbance at the nest
It is essential to minimize disturbance at nests for both ethical and scientific reasons. The first principle is that observations should not jeopardize the safety of the nest. Keep each visit brief. Any equipment likely to be wanted at the nest (e.g., notebook, field sheet, camera) should be ready before you approach. Cameras can be used but please restrain photo sessions to a reasonable time. A few minutes should allow you to gather all of the information you need. If you wish to describe the nest site and the habitat surrounding the nest, please do so from a reasonable distance or wait until the nesting attempt is completed. 

Minimize disturbance around the nest
Damaged or trampled vegetation can expose a well-sheltered nest to rain, wind or predators. If possible, avoid making tracks through dew-soaked grass. On approaching a known nest, pick a route that disturbs as little vegetation as possible, stepping over or gently parting clumps of undergrowth. Avoid breaking branches or removing vegetation. 

Do not handle the young or eggs
Do not handle the young or eggs. Small eggs and young are very delicate, and can be easily cracked, chilled or injured. Small nestlings are remarkably helpless and may not be able to crawl back into the nest cup if displaced, even in a nest box. Your touch will leave a scent. If you are unable to see all of the nest (to count eggs) because some chicks obscure the view, then indicate it is a minimum number in the visit comment box rather than handle the nest contents. This is not just a question of ethics. It is illegal to disturb the nests of migratory birds or be in possession of birds or eggs. If you wish to band birds or handle the nest contents you will need the appropriate federal, and in some cases, provincial permits. 

Respect private land 
If you wish to search private land as part of your nest recording, gain permission first from the landowner. Remember that you are asking a favour, and explain your purpose. Many landowners will probably be interested and keen to know about what you are doing. It is very important to treat the owners and their property with the utmost respect and to follow any special requests they make.