I also advise not to clean out the box. It is illegal to remove eggs and nesting material btw. Are the sparrows still around? Maybe they are harassing the EABL pair and causing her to delay laying. This could also be the females first nest and she isnt playing by the rules. The weather can also delay egg laying if it is cold. Keep an eye on the situation the next few days an hopefully she continues to lay. You could pair another box to keep the HOSP distracted until she finishes laying. Once she has finished laying and starts incubating, I would put the sparrow spooker back on. Good luck and keep us posted!

Yes remove the nest (save it in a ziplock bag in case you ever need to do a nestchange). You can move the box or you can simply make it face a new direction. My sister had a HOSP attack her blue eggs once. She removed the eggs/nest, turned the box and the blues came back and rebuilt and had a successful nesting. As for the wren guard. I use the heavy cardboard that computer paper boxes are made out of, it has never turned to mush in even heavy rains and lots of rain. Sides make it much more stable and prevent the front from blowing in and out wint the wind. I also screw the piece of carboard that is taped to the roof of the box to the roof of the box because sometimes with duct tape, when it gets wet in will loosen up some. I do use water proof duct tape now but I like the screw in the top for added stability. Good luck! Donna

I don't have a lot of experience with the monofilament line. You should register at bluebird nut cafe and post there as well, it is a little more active than this forum. I visit both sites daily. http://bluebirdnutcafe.yuku.com/forums/63/The-Bluebird-Chatter-Forum-Our-Main-Discussion-Area/The-Bluebird-Chatter-Forum-Our-Main-Discussion-Area

I need to check on mine today Gary. My male is fairly skittish, and he like to do a big "fly in your face to intimidate you" kinda thing. I never get bombed by the birds in my yard, and I think it's because I am out there so much. This particular male though is skittish, and it really worries him for me to actually touch his box! He is fine as long as I don't touch it. :o) I may take my step stool and an umbrella out so that it's easier on him and me!! I will let you know. Mine should be hatched out by today if all is going well.~~Angie