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Building a new nest on top of babies? What to do?

10 years ago

Just moved to a new house this spring and put up 2 boxes at each end of a large yard. Had one successful nesting in one box with 5 fledging in early May. Checking the other box (had been gone for 3 weeks) found 3 hatchlings and observed both parents attending the nest. Today I notice what seemed strange behavior-- male and female going to entrance of box but not entering. Checking th box I find a nest is being built on top of the babies to the point that they can barely be seen. Any explanation for this behavior and anything to do about it? I don't know if this is the same pair or a different pair.

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Comments (4)

dzyg
10 years ago
What kind of nesting material? I would take out the new nesting material and make sure the nestlings are ok and just observe and make sure the nestlings are being fed. Do you have any idea on how old the nestlings are? Are they feathered yet? Good luck!

Donna
new2blues
Original Author
10 years ago
The nesting material looks likes fine pine straw and/or dry grass. The babies are not feathered yet. The new nest builders are definitly blue birds. Would there be any value in moving it to the other box?
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dzyg
10 years ago
Yeah, I would move it to the other box...do you know if the nestlings are being fed yet? If they aren't they won't make it too long. You could call a rehabber and see what they suggest if you have any in your area.

Good luck!

Donna
new2blues
Original Author
10 years ago
I did move it to the other box. Unfortunately I had to go out of town so no chance to watch for further developments. I won't be back for several days but my husband will be back tomorrow and we will update. Thank you for the input.

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