Quick Answers
Old bird nests, including those built by phoebes, generally do not need to be removed once the birds have finished nesting for the season. While old nests may look unsightly, they pose little risk to humans and removing them destroys the hard work of the birds. However, there are a few instances where removing an old nest may be advised:
– The nest is infested with parasites like bird mites that may transfer to humans. Mites can cause itchy rashes.
– The nest is full of droppings and creating an unsanitary mess. Bird droppings can carry diseases.
– The nest is in an area where it may become dislodged and fall on people below. Falling debris can cause injuries.
– You need to perform maintenance on the area where the nest is located. Removal provides access.
If the nest is safely located and none of these issues apply, consider leaving the nest intact. Birds often return to the same sites year after year and rebuild on top of old nests. This saves them energy and provides familiarity. If you do remove a nest outside of nesting season, be sure to wear gloves and a mask to prevent exposure to parasites, droppings, and debris. Monitor the area and remove any new nests starting construction during nesting season.
Should You Remove An Old Bird’s Nest?
Finding an old bird’s nest on your property can raise questions about what to do. Should you remove the abandoned nest or leave it in place? Here are some things to consider when deciding:
Reasons To Remove An Old Nest
– The nest poses a safety hazard. If it is located somewhere where it could fall and injure someone, removing it is advised. Dead branches holding nests can break off and falling nest debris is a risk.
– It is infested with bird mites, insects or other pests. Some old nests can harbor mites, fleas, ticks and other parasites. If they are abandoned, these bugs can migrate looking for a new host and bite humans or pets.
– It is causing property damage. Nesting materials and droppings can stain or corrode buildings, vehicles, furniture and other surfaces if left to accumulate.
– It makes an unsightly mess. Old nests full of droppings can create unsanitary and smelly conditions. Some people prefer to remove them for aesthetic reasons.
– You need access to the area for maintenance. You may need to remove the nest to make repairs or perform other maintenance tasks.
Reasons To Leave The Nest
– The nest is safely out of the way. If it is in a location where it poses no hazards or nuisance, leaving it causes no harm.
– To allow reuse by birds. Many species reuse old nests, so leaving them intact saves birds energy.
– It provides shelter for other wildlife. Abandoned nests can provide cover and habitat for insects and other small animals. This supports biodiversity.
– It has sentimental value. For some people, an old nest left behind by beloved backyard birds holds meaning worth preserving.
– To avoid disturbing birds during nesting season. It is illegal to disturb or destroy nests while birds are actively using them to raise young. Avoid removing old nests April through August.
How To Remove A Nest
If you decide an old nest must go, follow these tips for safe removal:
– Time it outside of nesting season, which is primarily April – August. It is illegal to disturb nests during active use.
– Wear protective clothing like gloves, long sleeves and pants to avoid contact with parasites, droppings and debris. Wear a particulate mask as added protection.
– Seal nest contents like feathers, droppings and twigs in a plastic bag for disposal to prevent spread of hazards.
– Use caution when working from heights and ladders. Be aware of electrical wires.
– For nests on the ground, rake and dispose of debris instead of using a mower, which can fling the mess.
– Use hot, soapy water to wash any surfaces where the nest was located to control pests and remove mess.
Phoebe Nesting Habits
Before removing a phoebe nest, it helps to understand the bird’s nesting behaviors:
– Nest placement: Phoebes attach their nests to ledges and beams of buildings, sheds, garages, under bridges, and on cliff edges or cave walls. Their mud nests have a saucer shape.
– Nesting season: Phoebes can raise up to three broods per year. In most regions, the nesting season lasts from March/April through August.
– Reuse: They frequently reuse nests, rebuilding on the prior year’s nest. Some phoebe nests grow large over multiple seasons of reuse.
– Abandonment: Old nests are abandoned after young fledge. Phoebes migrate in winter months.
– Nest defense: While nesting, phoebes aggressively defend the area around the nest from intruders and threats. But once nesting ends, they are no longer protective.
– Species: There are two phoebe species: the Eastern Phoebe and Say’s Phoebe of western North America. Their nesting behaviors are very similar.
Risks Of An Old Phoebe Nest
Abandoned phoebe nests pose few risks, but here are a few considerations:
– Parasites – Old nests can house mites, fleas, ticks and other external parasites. Risk increases if the old nest had a parasite infestation.
– Droppings – Phoebe droppings tend to get wiped or washed away, but accumulated droppings can harbor bacteria.
– Nest collapse – Adobe nests are durable but may eventually crumble from weather and time.
– Dead nestlings – Any babies that died in the nest decompose and can attract ants.
– Mess – Feathers, eggshell fragments and other debris may litter the area under the nest.
Overall, these risks are minor once phoebes are done nesting for the season. Use common sense based on location and condition of the specific nest.
When To Remove A Phoebe Nest
It is best not to remove an intact phoebe nest during nesting season when the parents are actively using it. Avoid disturbing nests April through August. Once birds have finished nesting for the season, removing inactive nests carries low risk:
Safe Times For Removal
– September through November – After migrating south, phoebes do not reuse old nests. This is the optimal window for removal.
– December through February – Phoebes are still away during these winter months. However, poor weather may complicate access.
– Early March – Phoebes return from migration in February/March. removing nests in early March while still vacant avoids conflict.
Riskier Times For Removal
– Late March through August – Active nesting season. Removal illegal and will distress the parents.
– December/January – Some phoebes overwinter in their nesting range instead of migrating. The nest may be actively used. Check first.
Whenever possible, remove nests only after confirming the nest is empty and phoebes have left the site after nesting season. Avoid displacing active birds. Monitor to prevent rebuilding at troublesome sites.
Conclusion
Old phoebe nests are often best left undisturbed, as they pose minimal risks once the birds have finished nesting for the season and do not reuse the inactive nests. However, if a particular nest has become problematic by causing a nuisance, hazard or property damage, removing it is an option outside of the nesting months.
Use care when doing so, as abandoned nests can still harbor parasites, bacteria and other hazards in the form of droppings, feathers and debris. Wear protective garments, avoid inhaling particles, and seal refuse for disposal. With safety precautions, old nests can be removed during fall and winter months when phoebes are not present to avoid disturbing the nesting birds. Monitor sites after removal to prevent the nest from being rebuilt in undesired locations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do phoebes reuse old nests?
Yes, phoebes often reuse old nests. They repair and rebuild on top of the prior year’s nest structure. This saves time and energy compared to building a brand new nest.
How long do phoebes use the same nest?
Phoebes may use the same nesting site for many years in a row. As they reuse the nest, it can grow quite large over multiple seasons if not removed.
Do abandoned phoebe nests attract other birds?
Abandoned open cup nests like those of phoebes do not typically attract new inhabitants. Cavity nesting birds may reuse enclosed nest sites.
Will phoebes rebuild a nest I remove outside of nesting season?
If suitable nesting sites remain available, yes phoebes may build a new nest in the same location if the old nest is removed.
Can an old phoebe nest be relocated rather than removed?
Yes, an intact phoebe nest could potentially be relocated outside of nesting season. Ensure the new location has suitable ledges and roof cover.
Should I clean the area if I remove a phoebe nest?
Yes, thoroughly clean the surface under the nest using hot water, soap and disinfectant to remove any parasites, bacteria, feathers and droppings.
How can I discourage phoebes from rebuilding in an undesired location?
Removing ledges, overhangs and covered shelter can make a site less attractive. Scare deterrents or blocking access may also discourage rebuilding.
What do I do if I find a phoebe nest with eggs or chicks?
It is illegal to disturb or destroy active nests with eggs or young. Leave the nest until the babies have fledged and parents have left the area after nesting season.
Are old phoebe nests a big risk for parasite infestations?
Abandoned nests have a low risk for parasites like mites or fleas. Infestations are more likely in actively used nests. Still, take precautions and wear protection during removal.
Determining Nest Occupancy
It is important not to disturb phoebe nests while adults are actively using them for breeding. Here are signs a nest is currently occupied with eggs or young:
– Adult phoebes sitting in the nest, especially at night
– Adults making frequent trips to and from the nest
– Nestlings visible being fed by adults
– Sounds of begging young coming from the nest
– Adults dive-bombing or scolding intruders near the nest
Signs the nest is empty and no longer active:
– Nest is intact but unused for multiple days
– No adult phoebes in the area
– No sounds or activity coming from the nest
– No warm eggs or young in the nest if inspected
Use observation to determine nest activity before considering removal. Monitor over several days at different times if uncertain. Avoid disturbing active nests.
Nest Removal Guidelines By Month
Here are general guidelines for when phoebe nest removal is safest each month:
January
– Assess nest occupancy
– Proceed with removal if vacant
– Some phoebes overwinter in nesting areas
February
– Confirm nest is empty
– Remove nest if phoebes have not yet returned
– Use caution as some may already be back at nest
March
– Watch for returning phoebes
– Remove nests immediately if site is still vacant
– Avoid disturbing early breeding birds
April – August
– Do not remove active nests
– Monitor site but leave intact until empty
– Removal prohibited by law during primary nesting months
September
– Nesting complete; phoebes do not reuse nests
– Safe removal window after migration
October – November
– Remove abandoned nests before winter
– Take precautions against parasites
– Prepare site to discourage reuse next year
December
– Assess nest occupancy if in mild climate
– Remove nest once confirmed empty
– Weather may complicate access until spring
Always observe nests closely before removing to avoid harming eggs, nestlings or breeding adults. Prioritize removal outside of active nesting season whenever feasible.
Example Data and Table
Nest Location | Risks Posed | Removal Timeframe |
---|---|---|
Porch eave | Droppings on porch floor, chance of falling | October |
Garage door frame | Garage access blocked | February |
Under bridge | None | Avoid unless vacant |
This table demonstrates sample data for old phoebe nests in three locations, along with identified risks and optimal timing for removal in each case. Key factors like mess, property damage, and needed access are considered. The table visually compares the scenarios to help make informed removal decisions.