Finding appropriately safe, affordable and convenient housing is a desired outcome. Overcrowding in desirable neighborhoods is something of a challenge for many species. Corner lots surrounded by large lush tree canopies with an adequate food source make our lake house patio a battle of human vs. bird every Spring.
One robin hosts her several broods in the corner of the lattice work that hangs over the grill area. Amidst brief skirmishes when lawn mowing is required, we manage to co-exist with the Mrs. and her fledglings rather well. The baby cardinals in the burning bush also found peace and harmony without riling the local "people feathers".
However the larger patio with its inviting openings all around the sitting area was clearly marked a "no bird zone". Poking at a seemingly abandoned mish mosh of reeds and other paraphernalia led to an angry confrontation with a dove currently in residence. Vowing never to return she unfortunately left a nest of egg-type inhabitants that were only discovered in late Fall.
In an effort to avoid the egg/nest fiasco of last year, installation of wire cages in all open areas of the patio overhang were carefully installed. Imagine the dismay when a pile of freshly cut weeds, straw and bits of fluff were discovered in a corner right behind the carefully placed screening. As no activity was detected, this was quickly torn down in the evening. By morning the nest was re-established and two sparrows were hanging in a tree adjacent with mouths full of building material waiting for the human intruders to vacate the premises. Not wanting a summer full of chirping and bird poo dangerously hovering directly overhead, we are bound and determined to win this particular housing battle, before any children get hurt.
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