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It depends on the birds. Only they know when they will nest. Sometimes they don’t get in a hurry. There is also a possibility they are just shopping the available real estate.
Gin
Atlanta, GAWhen I get a new box it’s going to be one of these: http://nestboxbuilder.com/nestboxbuilder-products.html#xbox
IMO, slot boxes are way too attractive to HOWR. They love those wide spaces that make loading sticks easier.
Gin
Atlanta, GAIn addition to the above:
1. Vents seem to be most efficient when they are on opposite sides of the box.
2. A large overhanging roof helps to shade the occupants.
3. Try to face the box away from afternoon sun.Best of luck and try to have fun!
Gin
Atlanta, GACourtney, I love it when they do that! I’ve had it happen with CACH and TUTI and it’s so funny. AND it’s just like you said “close my wall please”!
Yay for your chicks!
Gin
Atlanta, GAOh honey. I totally get it. I WISH they had left those birds in Europe along with the starlings. We have way too many invasive species in this country and it’s not just birds.
Hope you are feeling better now.
Gin
Atlanta, GARich, since incubation seems like it hadn’t started the egg just might be viable. If incubation hasn’t started in the other nest you can give it a try. The limit should be no more than 5 eggs in the box. It’s actually pretty common for eggs to be fostered like this if they are close in age.
Gin
Atlanta, GAYes they can kill nestlings if there are enough of them.
Here’s lots of info: http://www.sialis.org/blowflies.htm
Gin
Atlanta, GAHow about a baffle? A raccoon baffle has a good chance of stopping a snake. You could also try a ring of crushed egg shells around the pole.
The thing about some predators is that we don’t often see them. They are all sneaky for a good reason. I KNOW I have raccoons but have never seen a live one, just a couple of road casualties.
Gin
Atlanta, GADees always make the best nests! They will use most any kind of fluff: insulation fibers, animal undercoat, etc. When I had a champion shedding dog, I used to collect his undercoat and put it out for them and the TUTI. They love that stuff.
The chicks are so TINY that it makes sense to build a nest like this. They are such delicate little things.
Gin
Atlanta, GAAll I know is, ANYBODY will evict ANYBODY they can if they want a box. EABL will evict also. They will also kill eggs if they want a box.
True, this is a bluebird forum but questions/comments/problems about any bird species are welcome.
My zero tolerance policy is directed at HOWR. Continuously. Forever.
Gin
Atlanta, GARich, you have to get the male. He’s the one bonded to the box. If you don’t eliminate him, he’s going to find another female. Happy hunting!
Gin
Atlanta, GAI don’t know of any data on PROW and the use of guard so I well understand your hesitation to use one. But I agree! Better she abandon than have a wren kill the eggs. I am so sorry and you know I feel your pain. HOWR! Ugh.
I have a HOWR couple trying to succeed in one of my boxes right now. It’s not going so well.
Gin
Atlanta, GA
