Just in the last two days, I have noticed the female blackbird which camps out in our garden pulling leaves off various bushes and trees and flying off with them into the thickest bit of the ivy before emerging sans leaves. So she's leaving the leaves in there somewhere. But is this nest-building? Dumb question, I suppose, but I have been wondering, because the leaves have all been fresh green ones. The ivy (which is a standard hedera helix, quite mature over a wall and fence so it's like a hedge) seems like a good place for a nest - well away from anywhere where the cats or squirrels go, out of the wind and weather, etc. Is there anyone more familiar with blackbirds' nesting habits than me who could shed some light? And should I be helping the lady out by putting out some nesting materials in a blackbird-accessible spot?