There are several little beaks bobbing and weaving in the nest. Mother and Father Phoebe are feeding them together. One of the parents--looked like Father Phoebe--served up a bug with its wings still on. Father Phoebe was working with the bug for some time. When he delivered it, the bug's body was facing towards Baby Phoebe. Baby Phoebe gulped it down with no complaints. Both parents stand together on the stamped concrete under the deck. They constantly scour the walls of the house for bugs. Now and then, they go up to the nest for a look-see. I haven't figured that out. Maybe looking for fecal sacs? Anyway, I can gawk all I want at this little family and they cannot see me.

Such a loud little bird! And to be unceremoniously kicked off the perch after all that song! Fun to see and hear. Claire

Hey Susan.....I went out and carefully checked on the nest and the little ones seemed fine. But they next day they fledged. So I'm thinking the mom was yelling at them to get going! Your experience was really cool! It must have made you feel really good to help them! Pat......hmmmm....isn't that curious that you haven't seen any yet? They are pretty neat birds. They're always finding funny places to nest. One year, we had a table saw on our covered porch with a tarp over it through winter. We went to use it in the spring and there was a nest of baby wrens under the tarp! So we had to wait until they fledged to use the saw. haha I'll tell some of mine to come your way!

Thanks for your reply. I agree they're smarter than we are and you are probably right about leaving them alone but I'm a little worried about that fern basket falling apart. One morning recently, while it was still dark, I turned on the porch light and saw one of the wrens huddled in the corner and wondered why he wasn't in the basket. I think I may still put the gourd up. If they don't like it they probably won't use it.