Imagine finding a bird’s nest tucked away in your backyard, complete with eggs that are soon to hatch. But what if the nest must be moved because it’s not in a safe spot – maybe too close to the ground where cats or other predators could reach it? You want to help these future feathered friends, but you’re unsure how to proceed without causing harm.
Did you know that some birds can find their relocated nests as long as they’re not moved very far from the original location? That’s right! With careful steps, you can ensure these birds still have a home while keeping them safe from potential dangers.
Our guide will walk you through the process of safely and ethically relocating a bird nest with eggs, considering both the well-being of our winged neighbors and legal guidelines.
Key Takeaways
- Always check if it’s legal to move a bird nest with eggs before you start, as some birds are protected by law.
- Use gloves and wear protective gear when handling the nest to avoid health risks and protect the birds.
- Move nests within 100 meters of the original spot so parent birds can find them, ensuring they’re placed in safe locations away from predators or dangers.
- Clean up thoroughly after relocating a bird nest to prevent attracting predators and maintain hygiene in the area.
- If unsure or dealing with high – risk situations, get help from professionals who know how to relocate nests correctly and safely.
Can You Move a Bird’s Nest with Eggs?
Moving a bird’s nest with eggs should be avoided, if at all possible, as it can disrupt the nesting process and potentially harm the eggs or cause the parent birds to abandon them. However, there are situations where it may be necessary, such as if the nest is in a dangerous location where it is at risk of being destroyed, or if it poses a threat to human safety.
Legal considerations before moving a nest
In the United States, the Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA) protects migratory birds and their nests, eggs, and feathers from being disturbed, harmed, or taken without authorization. The MBTA covers over 1,000 species of birds native to the United States and its territories.
The MBTA makes it illegal to disturb, destroy, or remove bird nests, eggs, or young birds belonging to species protected under the Act. This protection extends to active nests as well as abandoned nests.
In certain cases where relocation of bird nests is necessary for conservation or other purposes, individuals or organizations may need to obtain permits from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) or other relevant authorities. These permits typically involve demonstrating that the relocation is necessary and will not harm the birds or their habitats.
CAUTION!
Violations of the MBTA, including the disturbance or removal of bird nests without proper authorization, can result in significant fines, penalties, and potential criminal charges. Individuals, businesses, and organizations can be held accountable for actions that harm protected bird species or their habitats.
When Can You Move a Bird’s Nest?
Leave nests alone whenever possible. Abandoning eggs risks the lives of unborn birds. However, certain situations justify relocation:
- Nest placed in locations vulnerable to predators
- Areas where nest is exposed to weather elements like rain or wind
- Spaces needing maintenance or construction
Relocating nests is only permitted when eggs are unfertilized or cold to the touch. Warm eggs mean incubation is underway.
Moving them may kill embryos. Contact wildlife officials to confirm if eggs are dormant before proceeding.
Step-by-Step Guide to Relocate a Bird’s Nest with
If you have obtained proper authorization from legal authorities for moving the bird’s nest, then follow the below guide to relocate the nest to a safe spot:
1) Selecting a New Nesting Site
Identify a suitable habitat before shifting a nest. Look for sheltered spots providing protection, such as:
- Shrubs and dense vegetation
- Cavities in trees, birdhouses, etc.
- Ledges and overhangs on structures
- Eaves, rafters, and alcoves on buildings
The new area must replicate or improve upon the old nesting site. It should contain similar or better cover and be positioned away from danger.
Measure temperature, humidity, sunlight exposure plus visibility at potential locations. Handpick ones with conditions matching the original nesting environment.
2) Preparing to Move the Nest
Accumulate necessary supplies beforehand:
- Gloves to avoid leaving scent traces
- Flashlight for peeking into cavities
- Clean bucket or ventilated box to carry the nest
- Soft cloth to cushion eggs from shocks
- Scoop, spatula or spoon to lift the nest
A helper makes the operation easier. Assign roles – one person detaches the nest, the other holds the receptacle. Check if adult birds are away from the area.
If not, wait until they leave to forage. Their presence may distress them during the process.
3) Carefully Relocating the Bird’s Nest
Follow these steps to shift a nest without endangering eggs:
- Clear space around the nest to work freely
- Gently scoop, lift or detach the nest using a tool
- Place it on cloth lining inside the transport bucket/box
- Shut the lid and poke air holes if required
- Slowly carry the container to the new site
- Set the nest inside the fresh location
- Use surrounding material to camouflage exterior
When moving a nest, refrain from tipping, jostling or spinning it. Sudden motions may damage the eggs.
4) Secure the Relocated Nest
Once you reach the new nest location, gently secure the nest in place using soft ties:
- Drape natural fabric like cotton lightly around the nest
- Tie fabric to branches to stabilize nest
- The ties should allow room for adult birds to enter the nest
Make sure the nest has the same orientation and angle as the original location. This helps the parents recognize and adapt to the new nest site.
Monitor the nest from a distance to see if the adults return and resume caring for the eggs.
5) Caring for Eggs If Parents Don’t Return
Despite best efforts, sometimes parent birds may abandon a relocated nest and eggs. If the adult birds don’t return to the moved nest after several hours:
Incubate the eggs yourself:
- Obtain an incubator designed for bird eggs
- Maintain proper temperature and humidity levels
- Carefully turn the eggs periodically
- Ensure proper ventilation
Or contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator:
- They have specialized equipment and experience for incubating and hatching wild bird eggs
- Once hatched, the expert can hand-raise chicks until ready for release
A wildlife rehabilitator gives the eggs and hatchlings the best chance for survival. However, a quality incubator can also be used if done properly under guidance from an avian expert.
Key Things to Avoid When Moving a Bird Nest
When relocating a bird nest, there are also some critical things you should NOT do:
- Don’t move the nest after 10-12 days of incubation. Doing so almost always causes the parents to abandon it. The embryos will also likely die when their delicate blood vessels rupture from motion.
- Don’t turn or shake the eggs. This can detach and damage the developing embryos.
- Don’t remove eggs from the nest unless placing in an incubator. The eggs can quickly overheat or cool and die if not properly cared for.
- Don’t leave any human or unnatural scent on or near the nest. This can prevent the adult birds from returning to care for the eggs.
FAQs on Relocating a Bird Nest with Eggs
1. Is it legal to relocate a bird nest with eggs?
In many regions, it is illegal to disturb or relocate bird nests, especially those with eggs. It’s important to check local wildlife regulations before attempting to relocate a nest.
2. When is it appropriate to relocate a bird nest?
Relocating a bird nest should only be considered as a last resort in situations where the nest is in imminent danger, such as impending construction or natural disasters.
3. How can I safely relocate a bird nest with eggs?
It’s generally best to avoid relocating bird nests whenever possible. However, if relocation is absolutely necessary, consult with local wildlife authorities for guidance. They may provide assistance or advise on the best course of action.
4. What are the risks associated with relocating a bird nest?
Relocating a bird nest can be highly stressful for the birds and may lead to abandonment of the nest or eggs. Additionally, improper handling of the nest can cause damage to the eggs or harm to the adult birds.
5. Are there alternatives to relocating a bird nest?
Whenever possible, it’s best to leave the nest undisturbed and work around it. Consider adjusting construction plans or schedules to accommodate the nesting birds. If the situation allows, wait until the birds have fledged and then remove the nest.