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Protecting the nest box

17 years ago

As I have mentioned before, my blues visit "their" nestbox every day during the off season and usually stay as long as any competitors are in the area. The past several days, there have been a number of HOSPs, both male and female, hanging around. This morning was typical. Two males flew to the box before the blues showed up. Apparently assuming the box was available, they began to quarrel between themselves as to who saw it first.

From out of nowhere, Papa arrives.

As Papa chases one of the HOSP away, the other one returns to the nest box. But here comes Mama.

The HOSP has a choice: to flee or fight. He chooses the latter and finds Mama more than willing.

Finally, the HOSP gives up and leaves. But I have a feeling I will have to introduce him to Mr. VanErt before long.

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Comments (6)

kendra2003
17 years ago
I'm sure they will love meeting the infamous Mr. VanErt. I just had to comment, as those action shots are so amazing. Scrolling through those was like watching the bird version of "The Matrix".
bluebirdbabe
17 years ago
I agree those shots are amazing. I also agree that Mr. HOSP will have to meet Mr. VanErt.
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griffin_MD
17 years ago
Go, Papa, go!!!! I love how he sneaks up from behind the nestbox! Sounds like you and Papa are both on top of things, Dave. Great captures!
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bluebars
17 years ago
Incredible series! Incredible blues! They are doing their part, and we know you will do your part. A constant threat, those dirty HOSP. Funny though, seeing them try to fly backwards LOL.
BlueBars
kenn3d
17 years ago
Hi Dave,

That's an excellent action series with many fabulous open-wing shots. I love the way you capture them frozen in air like that! :)

We could tell pretty much the same story here... with our Blues visiting their nestbox everyday (mostly in the mornings) and defending it as necessary. Fortunately, we still have a relatively low HOSP population here, so we don't have to watch the aerial battles you show here that often. But woe be it to ANY bird lands on or peeks into "their" box. :)

Oh and btw, we've noticed Mr.B and Missy have begun discouraging their kids lately, (we've had 4 fledges from last season over-wintering with their parents here). Until now, it's been a calm and cohesive family of 6 everyday. But I think we will soon be missing the youngin's, as each day it seems more clear that we'll have the same pair nesting in the same box that fledged 13 chicks last year.

Spring's a comin' y'all!

Kenn

Here is a link that might be useful: Kenn & Temple's Bluebird Family
dzyg
17 years ago
Great series Dave! Hopefully both those HOSP can meet Mr Van Ert!!

Donna

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