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Early this morning, I was devastated as I observed my female bluebird being ambushed and killed by a hawk as she was sitting on top of her nesting box. She had laid 3 eggs. My question is: Should I remove the eggs from the nest, or should they be left in the box?
Some may disagree but I would remove as sad as it is. This will give you the best chance at a new nesting this season. I am devastated for you. Prayers. Xoxo.
I would remove the nest too actually. It’s so hard when we do everything right and something goes wrong :(
Since you actually saw the hawk kill this mama, I would agree with Lisa. HOWEVER, don’t know if anyone is for sure if another female could come and incubate those eggs if papa found another mate. I assume she had not began incubating yet, as there were only 3 eggs laid? Yes, this is sad but unfortunately we cannot control the hawks. I agree that he could find another mate and begin all over.
I agree with both Lisa and Carol. Remove both the nest and the eggs. I did have a situation similar to this a few years ago where the pair had 4 eggs in the nest and then the female did not return. I believe the male found a new mate about 4 days later and she started to build a nest on top of the old nest and eggs. I removed the old nest and eggs and they continued to build and did fledge a nest of 4 little blues.
David
Stafford, VAJust a sad situation all around. I’ve never lost a parent before, and I thought I’d been through it all. They never give up though.
Deb- all I can say is I’m so sorry you experienced that devastation. Hopefully, Dad will find a new mate soon & they’ll rebuild. So sorry for your loss. Hope you & Papa blue have some good luck moving forward!
Nicole
Thank you, everyone, for the comments, advice and condolences. I have removed the nest and the eggs. Now, we are starting with a clean slate. Hopefully, the male will find another partner and begin again. I will keep you updated.
Deb
I feel so sorry for you Deb. I hope papa finds a new mate and you get to enjoy watching a new couple bring a new family to the blue bird lovers everywhere. Removing the old nest and the eggs was the best thing to do. Keep us posted on how things go.
ConnieProbably a long shot but you could always call rehabber to see if anyone has bluebirds nesting that you could use as foster home. I’ve notified the local rehabber that I’m available if anyone needs this.
Tammy
Probably a long shot but you could always call rehabber to see if anyone has bluebirds nesting that you could use as foster home. I’ve notified the local rehabber that I’m available if anyone needs this.
I think eggs have to be the same age as the foster nest and incubation not started for this to work.
Gin
Atlanta, GA
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