Robins are birds that I enjoy viewing, but not as they try to build nests under our porch lights which are on both sides of an area right by our front entrance door. For three days my husband has removed the straw, twigs, etc in order to prevent a completed robin's nest. They put the straw, twigs, etc. up, he takes them down immediately. Today after reading these posts, I sprayed the area with ant and roach spray that I use when the ants try to visit too close to our outside walkway. Two robins just came with straw in their mouths, but they flew away. I hope this is a long-term solution. This is the first time that we have had this problem in the nineteen years that we have lived here. I am already tired of the mess on our porch and the potential health hazard presented if the robins succeed in building a permanent nest. We have plenty of trees that the birds usually choose for their nests and are still quite welcome to do so. However, why our porch this year is a puzzle. Thanks to all who have posted for their solutions. To the haters, because one does not want a bird's nest in an area that he/she frequently uses in his/her home, does not label the person as an animal hater. Why should my quality of life be compromised daily upon trying to enter my home for the sake of a bird's nest? The answer is that it shouldn't and will not. We will win this fight and reclaim our safety and keep our good health.

Hi Lyndsey- I'll give it a shot shot no one else has responded. The female builds the nest, but the male is there to inspect & approve. Maybe he doesn't like some of the material she's bringing in? If you really want expert opinion, register and n the bluebird nut cafe & you will probably get a better answer. Many experts on that site!

Thank you both. In the second movie the bud has developed into something strong and powerful, something unlike a flower stalk. Unfortunately it is possible to see only a fragment of it. More of the plant can be seen at 2:23. It is also possible to see there at the top, half way between the center and the right, something resembling flower petals, or may be it is only light. I have never seen Clematis armandii myself, so can't decide, what do you think? Here is a copy of the original at 2:23:

It does look like a nest but I can't say for sure. Around here, we occasionally have a psychotic squirrel that chews off the leaf clusters. The ground is covered with them under the trees. I have seen them do it. Maybe it has nothing to do with what you have but it reminded me of that, and I'm ice stormed-in all day today and felt like writing. ;)