Would like to be able to set up a digital camera on a tripod in my
yard to photograph birds around their nest.   Need to be able to
control the camera from inside the house where I can view the activity
without scaring the birds.    Don't need fancy control of the camera
but just basic shutter release.    What camera(s) and devices are
recommended?

Hi! Thanks for the question.

Here are digital cameras with wireless remote control features. On
some of the links, you can buy a remote control separately.

Olympus Camedia C-4040 with Wireless Remote Control
http://www.aaadigitalcameras.com/olympus_c4040_zoom.html

Olympus C-50 with Wireless Remote Control
http://www.nightowlcamera.com/products/C-50.html

Toshiba PDR-3300 with Wireless Remote Control
http://www.nightowlcamera.com/products/PDR-3300.html

Canon Powershot G2 with Wireless Remote Control
http://www.trillora.com/digital-cameras-powershot-g2.html
http://www.trillora.com/dbl-wl-dc100.html

HP Photosmart Digital Camera Accessories
http://www.stemo.bg/InfoNews.nsf/0/79e58cf2be1a1bd1c2256d33003854ab/$FILE/hp+photosmart+digital+camera+accessories.pdf

-----------------

Remote Control Only:

Pentax Wireless Remote Control E
http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/tg/detail/-/B0000505IU/103-3843695-0047860?v=glance

Canon RC1 Wireless Remote Control for EOS Elan-II/IIE Elan-7/7E IX 
http://www.digitalfotoclub.com/sc/main_item.asp?id=226757061

Search Strategy: 
wireless "remote control" "digital camera"
    
I hope these links would help you in your research. Before rating this
answer, please ask for a clarification if you have a question or if  
you would need further information.  
                      
Thanks for visiting us.                       
                      
Regards,                       
Easterangel-ga                       
Google Answers Researcher

Just what I was looking for.   Thank you.