I'd say UUUGGG too lisa! Aren't they horrible? I had a bull HOSP go into a Blue's nest last summer and peck holes into all of the eggs. Then, he proceded to throw the ruined eggs out of the BB box. That is when I finally learned about the sparrow spookers. I actually made my own and as soon as the first egg was laid in the BB box, I put it up. No more problems with the HOSP's trying to claim the box.

They have not really been a problem around here for years but I did have to take out a male last year. :( I felt bad but it had to be done. There are dairy farms a few miles down the road so I get some stray ones every now and then. I have a ground trap, a box trap, a 22 and a BB gun....they will NOT harm my Blues,Dees or TREES!

The HOSPS have bonded to the best box for me to get the best shot off. Seems like there is just one pair. This little sucker likes to sit IN the box and sing. It's going to be much harder to hit a 1&1/2 hole that a 3 inch bird!
The blues are still shoping so they are safe for the moment. I hope to have the dirty deed done today or tomorrow.

Lisa why don't you use an inbox trap on the HOSPs if they are already bonded to the box?

well I have an in box trap but 1. last time I trapped one it escaped when I tried to get it out and 2. It is a bird, a creature that feels, not it's fault for being here and doing what it does, a quick shot, never having a fearful moment, no pain, instant death. Happy and chirping one moment, the next gone. I feel is the most humane way possable. I hate hate hate having to kill it but I will.

Lisa, congrats and I'm sorry. I agree with your assessment of the most humane way of controlling the HOSP.

Good luck!

Linda...NW Georgia

Didn't get a goood shot of today, Mr. HOSP lives another day. They did not do any further nest building (it's been cold for 2 days),they dont eat here so they were here for just a short while. I decided to put some white bread out for them but they have not been back today. The Blues were gone the last 2 days while it snowed but they are back and shopping again. I still have a few safe days to get it done. UUUUGGGG Thanks Linda, nice to see ya! Hope you and hubby are both well!

Awwww lisa. Toooo bad. I was hoping that you'd gotten him by now. I do own a repeating ground trap. Have had some luck with it. I can imagine that it would be hard to hit one with a gun. We have BB and pellet guns, and it is darn near impossible to get them with those. Those HOSP's are smart. I swear, it's like they know you are trying to get em. You run yourself nuts trying to get them.
Hi Linda...I am in NW GA too!

gonna start a new thread with what is going on....Blues VS HOSPs