That is very sweet Cearbhaill! The federal Migratory Bird Treaty Act of 1918 states that it is illegal to: "pursue, hunt, take, capture, kill, attempt to take, capture or kill, possess, offer for sale, sell, . . . etc., any migratory bird, . . . or any part, nest, or egg of any such bird." So technically it is illegal to disturb their nest. But, sometimes I'm sure that is problematic. What if this bed were a veggie garden, and you needed to grow food there to feed yourself or your family?? And what about all the trees people take down that could contain a nest? I was working at a commercial property I manage the other day, pruning and clearing vegetation back away from the building. Chop chop chopping away at this Mountain Laurel, pulling out Bittersweet vines, almost done, and I was very surprised to look over and see this! I am very worried that I've exposed the nest, so I put propped some large branches in the back of the shrub to add cover to the nest. Yesterday I was over at the building and saw the Robin perched on the edge of her nest. Thank goodness she hasn't been abandoned her nest.

I have a hummingbird nest precariosly balanced but sticking way out of an established ficus pemalia plant that has engulfed my column by my main entrance. I have several feeders and the hummers are always feeding. Recently I watched one buzz me and continuously return to her nest right there. We had a freak cold storm out of Alaska coming with freezing rain and strong winds. I know the nest is too exposed to survive it. I wanted to help protect it a little and I was able to install and umbrella in such a way as to protect the nest without ever having to touch it. Momma hummer was doing her due diligence to ward me off but I was done very quickly and still saw her. She did go back to the nest but when I checked on it later she wasnt there. I was very relieved to be buzzed by her the next morning but I havent seen her sit on the nest and now I havent seen her the rest of the day or evening. I am devestated that in trying to subtly protect the nest that i caused her to abandon it. Especially since she has dealt with my constant in and out of the front door the last two weeks. Will she be back? Did I cause her to leave? Input is greatly appreciated.

Not really, but I found rehabber.

LOL Karen you know me to well....yup Im just afraid these little ones will get stuck in a horrid Michigan winter. And yes I would have to bring them in, buy a ticket to wherever they are suposed to be in the winter and send them there. I think my Orioles left today. Had one baby come to my kitchen window last night and peep at me.....I think he was saying good by (sniff)I still have oranges and another jar of jelly for any stragglers. Now lets talk about fish...I have too many are you ready for some of my babies?