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Cher, I, too, appreciate all that you and Tammy are doing. I worked in the IT security field years ago and know what you are going through as an Admin. I did not know that you were doing this as a “side” function. You are a special person to take this on. Thank you for keeping this forum safe for all of us.
David
Stafford, VAMaybe this one is a first-time dad and has not been told to help feed the young ones. He will probably start feeding when the female starts prompting him. Like Carol, i have not seen this behavior either. Both birds frequent the feeder and bring mealworms to their young.
David
Stafford, VALisa, it is good to see that your little ones are feeding and getting bigger. And for you and Carol – even though I grow my own mealworms, I am finding (at least for this batch of new ones) the parent birds are not taking as many worms as they used to. Maybe it has something to do with the heat or they have found a good supply of natural insects and seeds. I have just lowered my feeding to about 35+ twice a day.
David
Stafford, VAReally good to hear this Chris. I agree with Carol that you need to fix that rooftop. Perhaps a piece of plywood or styrofoam attached to the top until you can replace it. The moisture that leaks in can cause mold in the nest which is not good for the young ones.
David
Stafford, VAThanks Julie. It IS a matter of right place- right time to get the photos. I probably would have missed it had I not walked past the nest box after putting my lawn mower away. As I started by the box, I noticed a little head of one of the nestlings sticking out of the hole. This usually means that they are ready to fledge. I stopped and backed up to take a longer walk around the back of the box to not spook the bird. I went into the house and got my camera and binoculars and went out on the deck to see if I could get the photo. You see the result. Like I said, I almost gave up as it was hot and I was in the sun for more than 15 minutes before anything happened. I love this sport.
David
Stafford, VAThanks Carol and Dave. Congratulations on your fledge. Yes. that is a piece of Styrofoam on the southwest side of the nestbox. It is there for keeping the box a bit cooler during the summer. I did put a cover over the box last spring when our March and April temps were so cold and I had eggs in the box. I think that it helped as 4 of the 5 eggs hatched on April 28 while it was still very cool in the mornings.
David
Stafford, VAYou can also use lithium grease that comes in a tube and looks like white toothpaste. You can find it in the auto supply section of places like Walmart, and at the auto supply stores. Use it just like Carol said.
Lucas White Lithium Grease on Amazon
David
Stafford, VA
