Evie-
I have a problem with robins (& mockingbirds)taking over the mealworm feeder. First, I have changed feeders to where the bigger birds can”t get to the mealworms (still working on getting bluebirds to take to it). Before this, I would put mealworms in the regular feeder & hang another dish of mealworms on the pole right below the box just for the bluebird family. This way, they can both have their mealworms. The only thing is that I make sure I’m around when I do this & take dish down before sun goes down (don’t want to attract predators to box via the mealworms). I got my pole at Wild Birds Unlimited & they have a hanger/dish that fits right on the pole. I know you have to be careful about that robin perching on top, but they have no interest in getting to those babies. They just want the mealworms. When I put mealworms in both locations, the robins always use the regular feeder & the bluebirds always use the feeder on the pole. This would also help that Mama keep watch over her box. Some people may not agree with putting a feeder on the pole for a few hours, but it has worked beautifully for me so that the bluebirds can still have their mealworms & stay close to the box. That’s my story, but I’m sure others have their own suggestions. Hope it works out for that Mama & her potential babies!
As far as the eggs being tossed out of the box, I realize an egg can crack from being pierced & thrown out of the box, but I was just giving input based on what the Sialis site said in what may have caused cracked eggs outside of the box. My input was based on education, but I don’t have HOWR, so I wouldn’t know from experience like some of the others do. Again, really wish you the best of luck!
Nicole
