Hole reducer

[Meg]

So I think the Dees are almost done fixing up the nest for their second try, but of course now the blues decided to find the new box… They’ve been in and out for awhile today and have been sitting on top. will they take it from the Dees? I don’t have a hole reducer, has anyone made one out of cardboard or something?

[Carol – Mid-Mo.]

If you want the Dees to stay & produce, Yes you can make a hole reducer out of old plastic milk jug or something else. I’m not sure if you need a 1 1/4″ or 1 1/8″ though. Cardboard I guess would work but won’t hold up getting wet like plastic.

[dogsandbirds]

1.25 is small enough to keep the EABL out and still admit the CACH. Please do it soon or the EABL will be able to take the box from them.

If you don’t have plastic, the cardboard should work for the time they are in there. Use four thumbtacks and you should be fine.

Gin
Atlanta, GA

[Meg]

They are BCCH, but I’m assuming the 1.25 is also okay for them? Is it okay to put it on before they lay the first egg? It’s been cold and rainy here and have only seen the blues today and no eggs yet. I will be out of town so wanted to get it on before I left.

[dogsandbirds]

1.25 is fine for them. I don’t remember where you are so just assumed CACH. Usually a reducer is applied after the first egg but, given the competition for the box, I vote put it on now.

Eggs are hidden under the little blankie until incubation begins. Maybe there are some under there.

Gin
Atlanta, GA

[Meg]

Well I put it on yesterday because the blues were getting pretty attached to the box. I saw the dee going in so checked on the box this afternoon and there were 2 eggs! Guess I missed the one yesterday but glad I can get the wren guard and spooker up before I’m away for a few days next week. Wish I didn’t have to keep the blues out, but I always feel bad for the BCCH I feel like they get bullied by everyone else. They’re pretty friendly here I’ve even gotten them to take food from my hand in winter.

[dogsandbirds]

They are great little birds and always seem to have a hard time successfully nesting. Glad you are helping them.

Gin
Atlanta, GA

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